Here’s How to Divide Dahlia Tubers

Susan is back with us again to show how to divide dahlia tubers.

The best time to divide dahlias is in the fall right after you dig them up, while the tubers are still somewhat soft. Like potatoes or peonies, you’re looking to separate sections that contain an “eye,” (the node of potential new growth), which is always attached to the stem, usually just above the bulb.

The best way to store divided bulbs is nestled in pine chips or shavings (such as pet bedding), in a paper bag between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Dahlias are actually a tropical plant and don’t need a hard freeze overwintering period to reproduce—just a bit of cool weather similar to the mountain nights in the Andes where they originated!

Key Points for Storing and Dividing Dahlias

1. Give newly cut bulbs a day or two for the cut to seal over before storing. 

2. Store in breathable material; sealing bulbs in plastic bags typically causes rot.

3. Keep cool (but not too cold) until spring planting.