How to Store Thick Skinned Bulbs

Thick-skinned flower bulbs, such as tulips and daffodil bulbs, are also called hardy bulbs because they can tolerate low temperatures in the ground. They can, however, be dug up and stored during dormant periods. This may arise over the years if the blooms are smaller or the plants have become overcrowded and need to be separated. Storing the bulbs can also protect them from the harsh weather conditions or animals such as squirrels or rabbits. Bulbs should be removed when the foliage changes to yellow and the flowers have died.

Spading fork
Plastic bag
Insecticide-fungicide powder
Gloves
Cardboard box

Instructions

- 1
  Dig up the bulb with a spading fork starting 2 to 3 inches away from the base of the plant to prevent cutting the roots and the bulb.
- 2
  Remove and discard the foliage and spent flowers. Rinse the soil from the bulbs.
- 3
  Inspect the bulbs carefully and throw away bulbs that are damaged, diseased or undersized. The bulbs should be hard and spot-free. Set the remaining healthy bulbs in a shaded area to air dry.
- 4
  Place the dried bulbs in a plastic bag with an insecticide-fungicide powder to prevent diseases. Shake the bag to coat the bulbs. Wear gloves to remove the bulbs from the bag.
- 5
  Store bulbs according to the type, such as tulips or daffodils, in a cardboard box labeled with the plant’s name. The bulbs shouldn't be touching each other. Set the box in a dark, ventilated area, such as a basement or gardening shed, where temperatures are between 50 and 70 degrees F.

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