Dig up the dahlias

Using a pitchfork, carefully lift the dahlias. Start further out than you think necessary to avoid damaging the tubers. Gradually move closer and pry them up gently.

It’s common to accidentally “stab” a few tubers, but don't worry. You can often save them by cutting them in half and retaining the top end.

Label & Clean

Ensure each dahlia clump has an ID tag to keep track of your varieties. Gently brush off any excess dirt and move the clumps to a wash station.

At the wash station, use a forceful stream of water to remove the remaining dirt.

Dry

Place the washed clumps in trays and allow them to dry off in the greenhouse for 24 hours.

Divide the clumps

After drying, take each clump one at a time and cut off all the root ends to see how to divide the tubers more clearly. Cut off the top stem about an inch from where the tubers connect. Look for the eyes on the crown where the tuber connects to the stem. Using very sharp snippers, cut underneath the crown and sometimes into part of the stem to remove each tuber. Make sure each divided tuber has at least one eye.

In between dividing dahlia clumps, clean off your pruners - I use Clorox wipes.

Treat with Cinnamon:

Dip each tuber in cinnamon, either the whole thing or just the cut ends. Cinnamon acts as an antibacterial agent and helps prevent the tubers from rotting. Lay the treated tubers in a tray with the ID tag, being careful as they can roll around and get mixed up. Let them dry for 24-48 hours to allow the cut wounds to heal over.

Wrap & Label:

Before wrapping, label the box that will hold the next batch of tubers with the name and count of tubers, e.g., “(6) BQ Gale.” Wrap each tuber in plastic wrap, starting with one and covering it fully, then adding another and fully wrapping it, and so on. Depending on the size, you can usually fit 3-5 tubers in a bunch. Make a label of the variety name and count in the bunch using painter’s tape, and secure it on the saran-wrapped bunch.

Store Properly:

Store the boxes of wrapped tubers in a location that stays about 40 degrees Fahrenheit. I use a shed outside and keep a Govee thermostat that alerts me if it gets too cold. If the temperature drops below 34 degrees, I move the boxes of tubers to my attached garage to keep them from freezing and then move them back out when the weather warms above freezing.