It’s about time to start winterizing plants that are not hardy to our zone like Dahlias.

Dahlia Tubers are referred to as bulbs but are not true bulbs because of their growth function and appearance.

Tubers can be a variety of shapes, and form in a cluster, where tubers (like potatoes) grow out of the "eyes."

Bulbs are round and consist of one swollen root. Also, bulbs grow from one fixed point.

Dahlias are our end of summer bounty. Their brilliant color and flashy forms make for the perfect bouquet to brighten any room. They carry through the fall often, but they will only survive as far north as USDA plant hardiness zone 9. Cold climate gardeners must dig the tubers up and store them each year.

Our zone 7A consistently has winter temps of 0-10 degrees F. When we get a light frost the leaves will turn brown, but underground the tubers are still alive. The first frost stimulates the tubers to set eyes for next year. We must uproot our dahlias before any hard freeze to prevent damage.

Start by cutting back the foliage and lifting the bulb. If you are using a tool, avoid coming in contact with the tuberous roots. they can be easily damaged. Brush off any dirt and let the tubers dry for a few days. Cover dahlias in peat and store in a cool place. Store away from environmental changes like humidity or fluctuating temperatures. Plant them again after all dangers of frost has passed.