Dahlias are renowned for their stunning blooms and impressive ability to multiply through underground tubers. However, to ensure a bountiful display in the following growing season, gardeners must prioritize the proper care of these tubers during the winter months. Marryn Mathis, a seasoned flower farmer from The Farmhouse Flower Farm in Stanwood, Washington, offers essential tips on how to store and maintain dahlias over winter.
Timing the Tuber Digging Process
The first step in ensuring the health of your dahlias is knowing when to dig up the tubers for winter storage. Mathis emphasizes that dahlias can be dug up anytime after they have been in the ground for about 120 days. However, she prefers to wait for Mother Nature’s cue, allowing the first frost to signal that it’s time to prepare for winter. “I dig the tubers after the first frost turns them into a black, slimy mess,” she notes, underlining the importance of timing in this process.
Considerations for Soil Type
Northwest gardeners with sandy soil may be able to leave their dahlia tubers in the ground over the winter. Nevertheless, Mathis recommends additional protection, such as a tarp or a thick layer of mulch, to safeguard against the elements. At The Farmhouse Flower Farm, where the soil is primarily heavy clay, Mathis and her team dedicate several weeks each fall to digging up the dahlias and preparing the tubers for storage.
The Digging Process
When it’s time to dig up the dahlias, Mathis advises gardeners to cut down the plants, leaving a length of stem intact. Using a pitchfork rather than a shovel is crucial, as this method helps avoid damaging the plump tubers. Once the tubers are out of the ground, Mathis labels each clump using a black Sharpie on flagging tape, securely tied around the remaining stem. This labeling process ensures that she can keep track of the various varieties of dahlias as she prepares them for storage.
The freshly dug tubers go directly into plastic storage crates without rinsing. For those who don’t purchase bulbs in large quantities, Mathis suggests using plastic collapsible crates or even a wheelbarrow covered with a tarp to maintain moisture levels.
Ideal Storage Conditions
To ensure the health of your dahlias during winter, it is essential to store them in the right conditions. Mathis recommends a location where temperatures remain between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity levels at 80% to 90%. She warns against placing storage crates or boxes directly on a concrete floor, as concrete can draw moisture from the tubers, leading to shriveling.
Mathis regularly checks on her stored tubers every couple of weeks. If she notices any tubers starting to dry out, she lightly mists them to maintain moisture levels. A digital device she recommends is the ThermoPro, which monitors both humidity and temperature. “It’s the best 15 bucks you’ll ever spend,” she enthuses, highlighting the value of investing in monitoring tools for successful tuber storage.
Dividing Dahlias in Preparation for Spring
As fall turns into winter, life on the farm remains busy. Mathis typically waits until January to begin dividing her dahlias in preparation for the annual spring dahlia tuber sale at The Farmhouse Flower Farm. The division process involves washing each clump, cutting it into individual tubers, and allowing them to dry for 24 to 36 hours. This curing period helps to seal the fresh cuts, minimizing the risk of rot or disease.
Once dried, the tubers are stored in 16-quart Rubbermaid containers, layered in vermiculite. Mathis starts by placing a layer of vermiculite in the bottom of the container, then arranges the tubers so they are not touching one another. She continues to layer until the container is full. “I call it my dahlia tuber lasagna,” she laughs, demonstrating her lighthearted approach to this essential gardening task.
The Rewards of Dahlia Cultivation
The effort put into caring for dahlias throughout the year, particularly during winter, is well worth the investment. Mathis notes that for every tuber planted, gardeners can expect to harvest four to eight tubers at the end of the growing season. “Dahlias are such a good investment,” she affirms, emphasizing the potential rewards that await those who care for them diligently.
Dahlias are not just a labor of love; they are also a reliable source of beauty in any garden. The vibrant blooms produced by well-cared-for tubers can transform a landscape, bringing joy to both gardeners and those who admire their efforts.
Conclusion
As winter approaches, the care of dahlia tubers is a critical step for gardeners who wish to enjoy these beautiful flowers in the spring and summer months. By following the expert advice of Marryn Mathis and ensuring the proper timing, digging methods, storage conditions, and division practices, you can ensure the health and vitality of your dahlias. With the right care, your garden can flourish, offering a stunning display of blooms that reflect the hard work and dedication put into their cultivation. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a newcomer, the rewards of growing dahlias are well within reach, making them a valuable addition to any garden.
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