Putting the dahlias to bed for the winter. Part I

This was the last cutting I took before

our second hard frost.  It's sad but it's time to work towards the next growing season; it's time to dig up the dahlias.  You have time to do this before a deep freeze sets in or the ground is snow covered.  The first step is to cut the stalks down, leaving several inches above the ground.

There's no need to leave much on the plant when preparing them for winter.

The dahlia garden won't look like much at this point.

Using a shovel or a pitchfork, go deep enough under the plant so that you don't damage it.  Don't panic if you do take off a bit of a tuber.

Gently lift the tubers out of the ground and shake off any loose dirt.



Depending on how many plants you have, set them in the wheel barrow or a bucket.



Rinse the remaining dirt off.

You're now ready for the next step.  Stay tuned for Part II.