Dahlias , like many other tender plants , are not freeze - stout and can not survive winter if left out of doors in moth-eaten climates . However , with right guardianship and attention , dahlias can be lift and stored to protect them from the cold and secure their survival for the following yr .
The first step in preparing dahlias for wintertime is to expect until the first frost has blackened the foliage . This sign that the works has entered dormancy and is ready to be lifted . Use a garden fork or spade to cautiously dig out around the plant life , being conservative not to damage the tubers . mildly lift the clump of tubers out of the ground , shake off excess soil .
Once the tubers are lifted , it is important to let them dry for a few days in a cool , juiceless stead . This countenance any spare moisture to evaporate and reduces the endangerment of waste during warehousing . After drying , thin out back the leaf to about 6 inches from the tuber .
Next , it is time to prepare the tubers for storage . visit each genus Tuber for any signs of disease or impairment , and cast away any that are affect . Dusting the tubers with fungicide or S gunpowder can help prevent bunk and fungous infections during storage .
opt a storehouse container that provides good airflow and is heavy enough to suit all the tubers without overcrowding . Wood or charge plate crateful with slatted sides or mesh bags are idealistic for this purpose . Fill the container with a dry , well - draining material such as vermiculite , moxie , or peat moss .
identify the tuber in the container , making sure they are not touching each other . Cover them with the ironic material , ensuring that the tubers are completely surrounded and protect . Store the container in a cool , dark , and dry placement , such as a basement or service department , where temperatures stay above freeze but below 50 ° F ( 10 ° light speed ) .
Throughout the winter , check on the Tuber periodically to check that they are not drying out or becoming too damp . If they are too dry , mist them lightly with water . If they are too damp , transfer some of the dry material and allow them to vent out . It is important to defend a proper balance of moisture to foreclose the genus Tuber from shriveling or rotting .
In former spring , as the hazard of hoarfrost has choke and the weather begins to warm up , it is time to prepare the tuber for plant . Take the Tuber out of storage and inspect them again for any signs of damage or disease . If any tubers have shriveled or become soft , they may not be viable and should be cast away .
To promote goodly increment and prevent the gap of diseases , consider intoxicate the tubers in a solution of water and blanching agent ( 1 part bleach to 9 parts water ) for about 15 minutes . Rinse the Tuber good with clean water after soaking .
After soaking , the tubers can be constitute in well - prepare soil in a sunny location . It is authoritative to hold off until the filth has warmed up and all peril of frost has passed before found . position the tubers in the ground with the bud side facing up , about 4 - 6 inches deep and 12 - 18 inches apart , look on the form .
Provide the newly plant genus Tuber with regular tearing and keep an eye out for any sign of pest or diseases . As the dahlia grow , they may require venture to endure their tall root word and large flowers . Applying a layer of mulch around the plant can help keep up moisture and suppress weed outgrowth .
By following these steps and provide proper winter attention , dahlia can be successfully overwintered and enjoy for many class to come in .
Caroline Bates
