This question was asked by
Could you please let me know about lifting dahlias. I had two large ones and lifted them for the following season. I wrapped them up in newspaper and kept them in my cold greenhouse. Upon examining them for planting this season most of the tubers are soft as you touch them. Are they still ok to plant or should I throw them away. I have no problems with your Lillies I leave them in the ground and they come up every year. Should I just buy dahlias each season and not lift them and store them for the following season. I would appreciate your reply before I place my next order. Kind Regards George
Healthy Dahlia tubers
When dahlia tubers become soft to the touch after storage, this usually indicates that they have rotted and, unfortunately, are unlikely to be viable. Healthy tubers should feel firm. If only small sections are soft, you can try cutting those parts away back to firm tissue, but if the majority of the tuber is soft, it is best to discard them.
For future reference, dahlias can be successfully lifted and stored, but they do need the right conditions. After lifting, they should be dried thoroughly and then stored in a cool, frost-free, well-ventilated place. Wrapping them too tightly (for example in newspaper alone) can sometimes trap moisture and lead to rot. Many gardeners have better results storing them in dry compost, vermiculite, or wood shavings, which helps regulate moisture levels.
Whether you need to lift them each year depends on your soil and local conditions. In milder areas with free-draining soil, some people do leave dahlias in the ground with a thick mulch, but there is always a risk of frost damage or winter wet causing rot. Lifting remains the most reliable method if you want to ensure they survive year to year.
If you prefer a simpler approach, there’s nothing wrong with buying fresh plants or tubers each season, but with a slight adjustment to storage methods, you should be able to keep them successfully.
We hope this helps, and please do get in touch if you need any further advice before placing your next order.
The Hart Family
