Dahlias are absolute showstoppers in the garden, but they aren’t exactly fans of the cold. To keep them from freezing once the temperatures drop, you’ll need to move them to a cozy, frost-free spot for the winter. For most of us, a basement is the perfect “winter hotel” for these tubers.
What Makes a Basement Ideal?
To keep your dahlias happy until spring, your storage space needs to hit a few key marks. Ideally, the room should be:
- Dark
- Cool (aim for about 40°F to 45°F, or 5 to 8 degrees Celsius)
- Dry (moisture is the enemy here!)
Try to keep the temperature from creeping above 45°F. If it gets too warm or humid, your dahlia tubers might get confused and start sprouting way too early. On the flip side, you don’t want it *too* cold, either. The goal is to keep them safely tucked away from frost so they have the energy to burst back into bloom when spring rolls around.
No Basement? No Problem!
If you don’t have a basement, don’t worry—you’ve got options. A garage or a sturdy garden shed can work just as well, provided they stay dark, dry, and cool. You can even overwinter your dahlias right in their pots if that’s easier for you.
How to Store Your Dahlias in the Basement
Once you’ve dug up your tubers and brushed off the excess dirt, it’s time to pack them away. One tried-and-true method is to place them in a wooden crate filled with sand or a dry peat-sand mix. I like to wrap the tubers loosely in newspaper first or line the crate with it. You can stack the tubers, but don’t pack them in too tight—they need a little “breathing room” for air to circulate.
If you’re short on floor space, here’s a pro tip: try the hanging method. Grab some large plastic bags, poke a few ventilation holes in them, and pop your tubers inside. You can hang these bags up to keep your floor clutter-free.
The most important rule? Make sure those tubers are bone-dry before you store them. If they’re even a little damp, they can quickly fall victim to mold or rot, especially if the air gets a bit humid. Every few weeks, do a quick “wellness check” on your tubers. If you see any signs of rot or damage, toss those out immediately so they don’t spoil the rest of the bunch!
