Sunday, November 6, 2011

Overwintering Dahlias

This season was our first attempt at growing dahlias in our cutting garden.
We are excited to share some pictures of our success.
Now, we want to overwinter the tubers so we will have them for next year.
Steps for overwintering... once foliage turns black after first killing frost cut back foliage to 6".  Dig the tubers and shake off excess soil.  Hang the tubers with stems pointing down in a dry place for 2 weeks.  We used handmade cheese cloth bags to keep stems in place and allow air to flow around tubers.  Fill a box with peat moss and place tubers in so they are not touching each other.  Store in a dry, dark place between 40-45 degrees.  Wait patiently for spring to replant and enjoy again!!