Digging & Storing Tender Bulbs: Caladiums, Dahlias, Elephant Ears

Caladiums, dahlias, and elephant ears won't survive Atlanta winters outdoors. Dig before first frost and store indoors for replanting next May.

Digging

• Use a spading fork to lift clumps without slicing bulbs.
• Shake off soil; leave foliage attached to ID varieties.
• For dahlias, cut stems to 12" before digging.
• Elephant ear corms can be large—cover stems with cloth when cutting to avoid oxalic acid sap in eyes.

Drying

Spread in dry shade until foliage withers and stems shrink. Optional: dust with sulfur or wipe with 1:10 bleach water for fungal protection. Don't let them freeze or get wet.

Storing

Layer in cardboard boxes with dry peat moss (bulbs not touching). Label by variety/color. Store warm (above 50°F)—a closet works. Unlike spring bulbs, tender bulbs hate cold storage.

Come May, plant in warm soil and enjoy another season of tropical foliage.