We often have requests for information of how to store dahlia tubers. Over the past 10 years we have tried many methods and have decided the following works best for us:
We no longer buy into the need for them to freeze before we dig the tubers out. We dig them the best possible days the last week or so of October. It is easiest to leave about a foot of the stem when you cut the plants down just so you have a handle to help lift them. Many of us spray them with the hose to get the dirt off or use an air compressor to blow them clean. If using water let them sit on newspaper on a bench or table (not cement) in a garage for about 2 days to dry. After that, you should see "eyes" to divide them (lots of You Tube videos to show you how) then put them in zip lock 1 gallon freezer bags with about a cup of coarse vermiculite to cover them mixed with a scant teaspoon of sulfur. We use a metal knitting needle to poke the bag for ventilation. We write the variety on the tuber and the bag with a sharpie and only put the same variety in the bag. Then, we buy moving boxes from Lowes and store them in a dry place that is ideally around 42 degrees until mid April for our area. If using a refrigerator line the boxes with several layers of newspaper on all sides because the side touching the inside of the fridge may freeze the tubers. Loosely pack the boxes with the bags of tubers. More newspapers on top, close the box and put them in the refrigerator with a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
We have had good luck with this method and hope you do too.
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