It’s not too late to plant heat loving, summer blooming bulbs. By planting bulbs such as Canna, Calla Lily, Dahlia and Gladiolus, you can enjoy the exotic flowers and foliage of the tropics without leaving your own backyard. Most summer-blooming bulbs are tender bulbs, which means in areas with sustained frost, they require lifting from the ground and storage indoors for the winter.

Winter Storage of Tender Bulbs

Tender bulbs are perennials in warm winter areas, but will not survive winters in the North. You can overwinter tender bulbs and enjoy them next year, if proper storage conditions are available and provided. To store summer-flowering bulbs, dig the bulbs when the foliage has withered or turned brown after a light frost. Dry the bulbs for two to three days in an airy, shady place before storing or they will rot. Brush soil from the bulbs and cut off the foliage 1 to 2 inches above the tops of the bulbs. Store bulbs in a dry, cool (50-55º F), well-ventilated area to prevent mold or mildew. Do not store in an air-tight container. Place bulbs in dry peat moss or wood shavings in a brown paper bag, open crate, netted bag or even old pantyhose. Label the bulbs as you store them.