The goal of storage is to keep the tubers dormant while preventing them from drying out or absorbing too much moisture. Several preservation methods exist, but we favor those that use reusable and environmentally friendly materials, avoiding plastic film or non-renewable natural resources, such as peat and perlite. After various trials, the following technique, using readily available wood chips, has proven to be the most effective, with a loss rate of less than 5%.
Storage method:
After harvesting and dividing , store the tubers in sealed plastic storage boxes. The best storage method at Floramama is similar to “making a lasagna.” We alternate layers of dry wood chips with layers of divided dahlia tubers in a sealable plastic box. We use large or small boxes depending on the quantities for each variety.
More precisely :
- We start with a layer of shavings at the bottom to prevent the tubers from coming into contact with the plastic, then we place as many tubers as possible on top of the shavings.
- We arrange the tubers like eggs in an egg carton, very close together but without them touching to avoid contamination, should ideal storage conditions not be maintained and rot should set in.
- Then we cover the layer of tubers with a layer of wood chips about 1/2 to 1 inch thick. And we start again, alternating layers.
- We finish with a layer of shavings on top.
- Finally, we close the box and stick a piece of adhesive tape on it with the name of the variety and the number of tubers in the box.
Ideal storage conditions
Temperature
Dahlia tubers should be stored in a cool place, with an ideal temperature between 4 and 10°C. This temperature range allows the tubers to remain dormant without the risk of freezing or drying out. A basement, unheated garage, or cellar are suitable.
Ambient humidity
Air humidity is crucial to prevent tubers from drying out or rotting. A relative humidity of between 70 and 80% is ideal. Air that is too dry can cause tubers to dry out, while excess humidity can promote rot and mold.
Dim or no light
Dahlia tubers should be stored in a dark place. Light stimulates root and sprout growth, which can lead to premature germination.
In short, to ensure the survival and successful recovery of your dahlias in spring, it is essential to maintain optimal storage conditions for their tubers. By respecting these conditions, you allow the tubers to remain dormant throughout the winter, ready to germinate and bloom again when spring returns!
2 comments
La piece la plus froide de ma maison est un garage qui est chauffé a 15/16C et avec un bas taux d’humidité. J’ai essayé de mettre les tubercules dans des cartons remplis de vermiculite, comme le recommande la société des dahlias mais ma piece est trop chaude je pense. La majorité des tubercules n’ont pas survécu. Ce qui marche le mieux dans ma situation, c’est de les laisser dans des boites de cartons ouvertes, et laisser de l’espace entre eux. Une année j’avais mis quelques coups de vaporisateur d’eau pendant l’hiver, mais je n’ai pas noté de différence avec les années où je ne l’ai pas fait.
Vous dites que : “L’humidité de l’air est cruciale pour éviter que les tubercules ne se dessèchent ou ne pourrissent. Une humidité relative de l’air entre 70 et 80 % est idéale”
Comment cela peut-être contrôlé après avoir tout enfermé dans une boîte de plastique étanche ? Rendu là, on n’a du contrôle que sur la température, non ?