Storage of Flower Bulbs During Winters and Dormancy

Proper storage of flower bulbs during their dormancy period is essential to ensure they remain healthy and viable for planting in the next growing season. Here are some tips for flower bulb storage during dormancy:

Timing: Wait until the foliage of the plant has completely died back before storing the bulbs. This allows the bulbs to fully mature and store the nutrients needed for next year's growth.

Drying: Once the foliage has died back, gently dig up the bulbs and remove any excess soil. Then, spread the bulbs out in a single layer on a tray or newspaper in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Allow the bulbs to dry completely for several days to a week before storing them.

Cleaning: Once the bulbs are dry, gently brush off any remaining dirt or debris. Be careful not to remove any of the outer layers of the bulb, as this can damage it.

Sorting: Sort the bulbs by size and quality, discarding any that are soft, moldy, or damaged.

Storage: Store the bulbs in a cool, dry, dark place. A temperature between 50-60°F (10-15°C) is ideal. Avoid storing bulbs in areas with high humidity or fluctuating temperatures, as this can cause them to rot or sprout prematurely. You can store the bulbs in paper or mesh bags, cardboard boxes, or shallow trays with good air circulation.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your flower bulbs will remain healthy and viable during their dormancy period, ready to bloom beautifully when the next growing season arrives.