Over Wintered Dahlias Have Sprung Into Life – Leaf Formation Has Started – What To Do?

Question

Last year I lifted my dahlias , dried them, and stored then in moist compost until spring without any problems. This year I have done exactly the same , but one particular variety ( sorry I can not remember the name , a beginners mistake — I now label all my dahlias! ) has sprung into life. They are stored in my cold greenhouse with a fleece over them and I remove the fleece on warm (approx 10 degrees) days to allow ventilation. The dahlias are stored with approximately 2 inches (50mm)- 4 inches (100mm) of the multi stems showing above the compost and leafs have started to sprout. I live in Northumberland, 13 miles north of Newcastle upon Tyne , so it will get very cold. What advice would you give , as I am concerned the dahlias should not have started growing. I look forward to your reply. Kind Regards Raymond Jennings.

Answer 1

The moisture, in combination with favorable conditions, have led them to sprout.

When storing them, it is best to do so in something that is dry. There is no need to do anything extra in your area, as they are hardy.

From here, it will be best to let nature take its course. This can happen from time to time, but it won't cause a whole lot of harm.

Here is an article that will help you to winter them, properly, should you choose to do so by hand:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/dahlia/storing-dahlia-tubers.htm

This article will help you to care for the plant:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/dahlia/dahlia-care-grow-dahlia-plant.htm