When to Lift Summer Bulbs

Now that summer is coming to a sad and mild end, you might have wondered what you should do with your Summer-flowering bulbs. Seeing as they flower in Summer, many varieties prefer warm climates, and Winter just doesn't provide that for them. 

So, you can lift them! Storing these Summer bulbs can help keep them safe until Spring the following year. If you're unsure of when to lift Summer bulbs (or how), then you've come to the right place! 

When to Lift Summer Bulbs

The rule of thumb with lifting Summer bulbs is to wait until their foliage dies back. If their foliage is still green, the plant is still alive, providing the bulb or tuber with energy so it can store it over winter. 

Once their foliage has died back, they're ready to be lifted! This includes other summer blooms, too, like Dahlias and Begonias. Although they're grown from tubers or corms, they can also be stored over winter to protect them from harsh frosts. 

How to Lift Bulbs

When cutting the flower stems back, leave a small spout above the soil level. This will help you spot them when it comes to lifting them from the ground. To lift bulbs, whatever the season, it's best to continue with caution. Doing so slowly and carefully will ensure you don't damage the bulb in the process. 

Once they're lifted from the ground, give each bulb a gentle brush to take off any leftover soil and pop them in paper bags or stacking trays with holes. Either option will give your dormant plants enough ventilation while also keeping them dry. 

Where to Store Bulbs

Label each paper bag clearly and keep them somewhere cool, dry, and preferably dark, until Spring rolls back around. This could be a shed, a cupboard, or even a cellar. 


There are exceptions to the lifting rule, of course. For example, Lily bulbs can be left in the ground with some extra mulch as protection from the icy winds. Gladioli, Dahlias, Begonias, and Cannas are all good examples of plants that should be lifted before Winter begins.