As summer draws to a close and the chilly winds of fall begin to settle in, many gardeners begin to think about how to prepare their precious summer bulbs for the colder months ahead. Summer bulbs, which provide vibrant blooms throughout the warmer seasons, can’t survive frost and freezing temperatures. Therefore, protecting these bulbs is essential to ensure they bloom again the following year.
Understanding Summer Bulbs
Before diving into the process of preparing summer bulbs for winter, it’s important to understand what they are and why they require special attention when the cold sets in. Summer bulbs, unlike hardy bulbs such as daffodils and tulips, cannot withstand freezing temperatures. These plants rely on warm weather to thrive and bloom, which means they need to be carefully dug up, stored, and protected during the colder months.
Common types of summer bulbs include:
- Dahlias: Known for their large, colorful flowers, dahlias are a summer favorite.
- Cannas: These tropical-looking plants with large, dramatic blooms need special care when temperatures drop.
- Gladiolus: Tall and elegant with stunning spiked flowers, gladiolus are tender bulbs.
- Lilies: Though some lily varieties are hardy, many types, such as Asiatic and Oriental lilies, require lifting before winter.
When to Dig Up Summer Bulbs
Knowing the right time to dig up your summer bulbs is critical. If you wait too long, frost can damage or kill the bulbs, while digging up too early may prevent them from fully ripening and storing energy for next year’s growth.
- Timing: Generally, summer bulbs should be dug up after the first frost but before the ground freezes completely. This typically falls in late fall, around October or November, depending on your location.
- Signs to Look For: You’ll know it’s time to dig up the bulbs when the foliage starts to yellow or wither. At this point, the bulbs have stored enough energy to survive the winter. If you’re unsure about the timing, it’s better to dig them up a little too early than too late.
- Weather Check: Keep an eye on weather forecasts in your area. If an early frost is predicted, it’s better to dig up the bulbs a few days ahead of time to avoid any damage from unexpected cold snaps.
How to Dig Up Summer Bulbs
Once you’ve decided the time is right to dig up your summer bulbs, you’ll need to take care during the process to ensure you don’t damage them.
Step 1: Prepare the Tools
Before heading into the garden to dig up your bulbs, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process much easier and reduce the risk of accidentally damaging the bulbs. Here are the tools you’ll need:
- Shovel or Spade: A shovel or a spade will help you dig up the soil around the bulbs. The wide blade of the shovel makes it easier to scoop up the earth without damaging the bulbs themselves.
- Garden Fork: A garden fork is an excellent tool for loosening compacted soil and gently lifting the bulbs out of the ground. It’s especially useful for bulbs with larger root systems, like dahlias or canna lilies.
- Gardening Gloves: Protect your hands while working with the soil and bulbs by wearing durable gardening gloves. Gloves will help you avoid cuts, scrapes, or contact with irritants in the soil.
- Bucket or Container: Once you’ve dug up the bulbs, you’ll need a container to hold them. A bucket or large plastic container is ideal for gathering your bulbs so they don’t get damaged or mixed up with soil.
- Pruning Shears: You’ll need pruning shears to trim back any dead or yellowing foliage on the bulbs. Cutting back the stems before storing them will help prevent the risk of disease and decay.
- Newspaper or Paper Towels: These materials will be used to help dry the bulbs after you’ve cleaned them. Drying is important to prevent mold or rot during storage.
Step 2: Gently Lift the Bulbs
Once you’ve gathered your tools, it’s time to dig up the bulbs. Start by loosening the soil around the bulb, which will make it easier to lift them without causing damage.
- Loosen the Soil: Insert your shovel or garden fork about 6 to 12 inches from the base of the plant, depending on the bulb type. Be careful to work around the root system. Using the shovel or fork, gently lift the soil, creating space between the bulb and the ground.
- Digging Deep Enough: For larger bulbs like dahlias, cannas, or gladiolus, make sure you dig deep enough to get underneath the bulb and its roots. If you don’t dig deep enough, you risk cutting into the bulb or breaking the roots.
- Lift with Care: Once the soil has been loosened around the bulb, gently lift the bulb from the ground. Avoid pulling directly on the plant or its stems, as this can cause injury to the bulb. Instead, work the soil with your garden fork or shovel, carefully prying the bulb out.
- Be Mindful of Delicate Tubers: Some bulbs, like dahlias or begonias, have delicate tubers that extend from the main bulb. These are important for the bulb’s growth the next season, so handle them carefully to avoid snapping or breaking them.
- Separate Multiple Bulbs: If you’re lifting a clump of bulbs, like gladiolus or lilies, be cautious not to break apart the bulbs too forcefully. Gently separate them by hand or with a tool, making sure to leave the roots intact.
Step 3: Shake Off the Excess Soil
After carefully lifting the bulbs, it’s time to clean them up a little before storing them.
- Shake Off the Dirt: Gently shake or tap the bulb to remove as much soil as possible. Avoid using water at this stage, as dampness can increase the risk of rot. Too much moisture can create a breeding ground for mold or fungus, which could damage your bulbs over the winter.
- Check for Damage: As you shake off the soil, take a moment to check the bulbs for any signs of damage. Bulbs that feel soft, mushy, or show signs of rot should be discarded, as they won’t survive the winter or grow again next season.
Step 4: Trim the Foliage
Once the bulbs are lifted, cleaned, and free of excess soil, it’s time to trim the foliage. Cutting back the plant’s stems is important for bulb health and helps facilitate storage.
- Trim the Stems: Use your pruning shears to cut back the stems and foliage to a few inches above the bulb. Leave enough of the stem so you can easily handle the bulbs later. However, avoid cutting too close to the bulb itself, as doing so could damage the growing points or cause injury to the bulb.
- Be Careful Not to Damage the Bulb: When trimming the foliage, it’s crucial not to cut into the bulb itself. Gently snip the stems and leaves without disturbing the base of the bulb. If you’re unsure where the bulb’s growing point is, it’s always safer to leave a little more stem than necessary rather than cutting too close.
- Remove Dead or Yellowing Leaves: You should only trim the dead or withered foliage. If the leaves are still green and healthy, it’s okay to leave them for a little while. However, once they begin to yellow or die back, it’s time to remove them.
- Remove Flower Stems: If your bulbs produced flowers earlier in the season, you may need to remove any leftover flower stalks as well. These can sometimes be a source of decay during storage.
Step 5: Dry the Bulbs
After you’ve lifted the bulbs, cleaned them, and trimmed the foliage, it’s time to dry them before storing them for the winter.
- Air Drying: Lay the bulbs out in a dry, well-ventilated space such as a shed, garage, or basement. Spread them out on a flat surface like newspaper, paper towels, or a mesh screen to allow air to circulate freely around the bulbs. Avoid stacking them on top of each other, as this can restrict airflow and increase the risk of mold or rot.
- Allow Sufficient Drying Time: It’s important to let the bulbs dry for at least one to two weeks, depending on the size and moisture content of the bulbs. Larger bulbs, like dahlias, may require a bit more time, while smaller ones will dry faster.
- Check Periodically: During the drying process, periodically check the bulbs for any signs of moisture or mold. If any bulbs feel damp or look suspicious, take them out of the drying area immediately to prevent contamination.
Cleaning and Drying Summer Bulbs
Proper cleaning and drying are crucial to ensuring that your bulbs survive the winter months and are ready to grow when spring arrives.
Step 1: Inspect for Damage
Before you begin cleaning your summer bulbs, the first and most important step is to carefully inspect them for any signs of damage, rot, or disease. This will ensure that you only store healthy bulbs and prevent any damaged bulbs from affecting the rest during the winter months.
What to Look For:
- Soft Spots: Gently squeeze the bulb to check for any soft, mushy areas. Healthy bulbs should feel firm to the touch. If a bulb is soft or squishy, it’s a sign that it is decaying and should be discarded.
- Rot or Mold: Check for any signs of mold, blackened areas, or a foul smell. Any bulb showing these signs is likely infected by rot and should be removed immediately to prevent it from spreading to other bulbs in storage.
- Cuts or Bruises: Sometimes, bulbs can become bruised or cut during the digging process. These areas can become entry points for fungi or bacteria. If the damage is significant, discard the bulb; if it’s minor, you can still salvage it, but be sure to monitor it during storage.
- Healthy Roots and Growing Points: Ensure that the bulb has healthy roots or tubers attached. If you notice that the roots have been completely damaged or that the bulb has no visible growing point, it may not survive the winter and should be discarded.
After you’ve thoroughly inspected the bulbs, set aside any damaged ones to discard. Keep only the healthy, firm bulbs for storage.
Step 2: Gently Clean the Bulbs
Cleaning your summer bulbs is an important step to prevent mold and rot from developing during storage. However, you should take care to clean them gently, as rough handling can damage the bulbs.
How to Clean Summer Bulbs:
- Remove Excess Dirt: Begin by gently removing the dirt from the bulbs. Use a soft brush, such as a small paintbrush, to gently brush off any excess soil. A soft cloth or even your hands can also be used to carefully remove dirt. Take care not to scrape or bruise the bulbs while cleaning them.
- Avoid Soaking: It’s important not to soak your bulbs in water. Soaking can cause them to absorb excess moisture, which increases the risk of rot. If you need to rinse the bulbs, use a gentle spray of water from a hose or a shower head. Avoid fully submerging the bulbs in water, as this can be detrimental to their health.
- Thoroughly Inspect During Cleaning: While cleaning, continue to inspect the bulbs for any signs of damage, rot, or disease. This gives you another chance to catch any issues that may have been overlooked during the initial inspection.
- Cut Away Any Dead Roots or Foliage: If any roots are broken or damaged, use a clean pair of pruning shears to trim them back. Likewise, cut away any dead or rotting foliage that could cause problems in storage. Be sure not to remove too much of the healthy root mass.
Once you’ve removed excess dirt and debris, the bulb should be fairly clean. However, it’s essential not to leave any moisture behind, as it can lead to fungal growth or decay during storage.
Step 3: Dry the Bulbs
Drying your summer bulbs is perhaps the most critical step in the entire process. Proper drying helps to ensure that the bulbs don’t rot or develop mold while in storage. This step allows any residual moisture to evaporate before the bulbs are placed in a storage area, where excess moisture could otherwise lead to trouble.
How to Dry Summer Bulbs:
- Place in a Dry, Well-Ventilated Area: After cleaning your bulbs, you need to allow them to dry thoroughly. Find a dry, well-ventilated area for this process. A garage, shed, or basement works well as long as it is dry and well-ventilated. Avoid places that are damp, such as areas near water pipes, as moisture can cause mold growth.
- Lay the Bulbs Flat: Lay the bulbs on a flat surface like newspaper, paper towels, or a mesh screen. These materials will help absorb any residual moisture and prevent the bulbs from sitting in excess water. Make sure that the bulbs are spread out in a single layer and not touching each other to allow for maximum airflow.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not place the bulbs in direct sunlight, as the heat can cause the bulbs to dry out too quickly or become damaged. Instead, keep them in a shaded area with good airflow to allow them to dry evenly.
- Allow for Sufficient Drying Time: The drying process generally takes about one to two weeks, depending on the size and moisture content of the bulbs. Larger bulbs like dahlias or gladiolus may require additional drying time, while smaller bulbs will dry faster. It’s important to allow enough time for the bulbs to dry completely.
- Monitor for Mold: During the drying period, check your bulbs regularly to ensure that they are drying evenly and that there are no signs of mold or rot developing. If you spot any mold, remove the affected bulbs immediately to prevent the issue from spreading to others.
- Check for Firmness: After the drying period, check the bulbs to make sure they have dried thoroughly. The bulbs should feel firm and dry to the touch, with no soft spots or moisture remaining. If any bulb still feels damp or soft, allow it more time to dry.
Step 4: Prepare for Storage
Once your bulbs are completely dry, they are ready for storage. Proper storage conditions are essential to ensure that your bulbs remain healthy and viable for the following growing season.
Storage Tips:
- Use Ventilated Containers: Store your bulbs in a breathable container, such as a mesh bag, a paper bag, or a cardboard box with holes for ventilation. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause rot. The key is to allow airflow around the bulbs while preventing them from drying out too much.
- Cool, Dry, and Dark Location: Store the bulbs in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a basement, garage, or closet. The ideal temperature for storing bulbs is between 40 and 50°F (4 to 10°C). Avoid areas that are too warm or too humid, as these conditions can encourage mold or rot.
- Check Regularly: Throughout the winter, it’s important to check your bulbs every few weeks to ensure they are still in good condition. If any bulbs show signs of mold or rot, remove them immediately to prevent the spread of disease to the other bulbs.
- Label the Bulbs: If you are storing multiple types of bulbs, it’s a good idea to label the containers or bags with the bulb type and the date they were harvested. This will help you identify them when it’s time to plant them in the spring.
Storing Summer Bulbs for Winter
Once the bulbs are clean and dry, they need to be stored properly to protect them from frost and freezing temperatures. The key is to find a cool, dry, and dark location where the bulbs won’t be exposed to excessive moisture, heat, or light.
Step 1: Prepare the Storage Containers
Summer bulbs should be stored in containers that allow air circulation to prevent rot. Options include:
- Mesh bags: Ideal for larger bulbs like dahlias and gladiolus.
- Cardboard boxes: If you’re storing many bulbs, you can place them in a cardboard box lined with newspaper or peat moss to absorb any moisture.
- Paper bags: A good option for smaller bulbs or when you only have a few to store.
For bulbs like cannas, you can place them in a box lined with dry peat moss or sawdust to help keep them protected from moisture and to prevent them from drying out.
Step 2: Add a Protective Layer
If you’re using a cardboard box or container for storing bulbs, add a layer of peat moss, sawdust, or wood shavings. These materials help absorb excess moisture and prevent mold. For larger bulbs like dahlias or cannas, you can cover them with a layer of newspaper or paper towels before placing them in the storage container.
Step 3: Store in a Cool, Dry, and Dark Location
The storage space should be cool (but not freezing), dry, and dark. The ideal temperature for storing summer bulbs is between 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C). You can store them in:
- A basement or cellar (ideal if the temperature stays within the right range)
- A cool closet or unheated garage (if temperatures don’t drop too low)
- A shed or attic (if it stays frost-free)
Make sure the bulbs are kept away from any areas that might get too humid, as this can lead to mold and rot. If your storage area tends to get too warm, consider using a cooling pad or space heater to maintain a stable temperature.
Step 4: Check Periodically
Once the bulbs are stored, check on them every few weeks to ensure they are drying properly and not showing signs of rot or mold. If you find any bulbs that look unhealthy, remove them immediately to prevent the problem from spreading to the others.
Preparing Summer Bulbs for Planting in Spring
When spring comes around, and the threat of frost is behind us, it’s time to start thinking about replanting your bulbs.
Step 1: Inspect Before Planting
Before replanting your bulbs in spring, inspect them for any signs of rot or damage. If a bulb has shriveled or is mushy, it’s best to discard it. Healthy bulbs should feel firm and plump.
Step 2: Pre-Sprout Bulbs (Optional)
Some gardeners choose to pre-sprout their bulbs indoors before planting them in the garden. This can help give your bulbs a head start for the growing season, especially if you live in a colder climate.
To pre-sprout:
- Place the bulbs in a shallow tray or container filled with moist peat moss.
- Keep the container in a warm, well-lit area (like near a sunny window) but not in direct sunlight.
- Water the bulbs lightly to keep the peat moss moist, but not soggy.
- After a few weeks, when the bulbs begin to sprout, they’re ready to be planted in the garden.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Summer Bulbs
Getting your summer bulbs ready for winter is an essential task for any gardener looking to preserve their plants for the next growing season. With a little care and attention, you can ensure your bulbs survive the colder months and bloom beautifully when the warmth of spring returns.
From carefully digging up your bulbs to inspecting them for damage and storing them in the right conditions, every step is important in maintaining the health and vitality of your summer bulbs. With the right preparation, your dahlias, cannas, gladiolus, and other bulbs will reward you with gorgeous blooms season after season.
By following these steps and taking the time to prepare your bulbs for winter, you’ll ensure that your garden is full of vibrant color year after year, no matter how cold the winter winds may blow. Happy gardening!