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Overview
Although, in some areas, dahlia tubers have survived the recent mild winters outside, it's well worth lifting and storing them. Discover how you can ensure a bumper crop of dahlias for next summer, whatever the weather.
Do it:
autumn
Takes just:
30 mins, plus drying time
How to do it
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Using secateurs, cut down dahlia stems to a few centimetres from ground level and compost the leaves.
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Dig all around the dahlia clump and lift the tubers with a fork, taking great care not to damage them with the spikes. Shake off as much soil as you can. -
Rinse off the soil, then stand the tubers upside down to dry.
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Pack the tubers in a box or pot and cover them with dry compost. Store them in a frost-free place, such as under the greenhouse staging or a dry shed.
"If your dahlias are in a warm, sheltered spot in the border and you don't want to lift them, add a thick layer of mulch for extra insulation in winter."
