Debi Holland shows you how you to protect and store your dahlia plants over winter so they’re ready for planting up again next year.
How to prep dahlias for winter
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As temperatures fall and dahlias stop flowering, it’s time to protect the tubers from frost. You can leave them where they are and mulch them, or lift them for storage.
Protect tubers in the ground. In a mild spot with free-draining soil, cut the stems down to around 10–15 cm above the base and cover the crown with a thick layer of mulch. Lifting is a better option if your soil stays wet, especially heavy clay, or if you get hard frosts.
Lift and dry the tubers. Dig them up carefully and brush or wash off the soil. The hollow stems hold water, so turn the tubers upside down on a tray for about a week to let the water drain.
Store somewhere cool, dry and frost-free. Turn the tubers upright in a tray, crate or cardboard box lined with newspaper. Pack dry sand, straw or old compost around them and leave the crown exposed so air can circulate. Avoid airtight containers, which trap moisture.
Check the tubers during winter and discard any that show signs of rot. The rest can stay in storage until spring.
