As we begin November, it is time for the dahlia grower to
begin lifting and dividing their dahlia clumps. In a “normal” year, the
November program at the Lane County Dahlia Society meeting would focus on this
important task, with live demonstrations. Because of COVID restrictions
however, we will not be able to hold our November meeting. Instead, we hope the
following instructions will help you successfully complete this task.
1.
The first step involves cutting down the dahlia
stalk of each plant. Be sure that you have every plant correctly identified and labeled first.
Then simply cut off the stalk 3-6” above the ground. This task is best done a
few days before you wish to lift the clumps. This will allow the eyes on the
tuber crown to swell, which in turn will make dividing the tubers much easier.
2.
To lift the clumps, dig on all four sides of the
clump, about a foot out from the stem.
When the fours sides have loosened, carefully push the shovel under the
clump and gently lift. Once the clump has been lifted, use a garden hose to
remove most of the soil.
3.
Sterilize your tools before you begin dividing.
A solution of one part bleach to ten parts water is a very low-cost answer that
kills the dahlia virus. Then cut off the remaining stalk. Look for the eyes
near the crown and begin dividing. Each individual tuber must have an eye to
grow the following year. After you cut off each individual tuber, remove any
remailing soil.
4.
After dividing and cleaning the individual
tubers, many growers let the tuber soak in a bleach solution for 5-10 minutes.
Then label each tuber with the variety name and let them fully dry.
5.
After the individual tubers have dried, they are
ready to be stored. There are several different storage methods, including
wrapping the tubers in saran wrap or storing them in individual plastic boxes,
filled with vermiculite or cedar shavings. No matter which method you choose, be
sure once again that your tubers are clearly labeled.
6.
The last step is to house your carefully stored
tubers in a location that is no warmer that 50 degrees but also will not dip
below freezing all winter. Then you can sit back and enjoy the restful days of
Winter.
·
For more in-depth instruction, we recommend
visiting the American Dahlia Society web page at Digging,
Dividing, and Storing Tubers – The American Dahlia Society
