Dahlia growers use different methods to overwinter dahlia tubers. We typically plant dahlias in pots, and at the end of the season, we remove the bulbs from the pots and store them for the next season. Here is the way I do it: this method works well for me. We live in Minnesota, zone 4.

• First label the dahlias before cutting.
• Cut foliage back so that only a couple of inches remain above pot or ground.
• Shake off all the dirt as much as possible
• After you dug up all the tubers gently wash the dirt off in a tub of water or with a garden hose.
• After you’ve rinsed the tubers it’s time to examine each clump to make sure that there are no rotten parts. If there are, cut these bits off. If they got diseased, I throw them away in the garbage
• Then, allow them to sit at room temperature for a day or two.
• After that I use a sharp knife to divide the tubers, making sure each piece has at least one eye.
• Then I cover all the cut area with cinnamon powder
• I store them in plastic bins with small holes, using pine wood shavings in between.
• Make sure to label the dahlia names on the storing bins
• At last, I store them in our basement until spring
• I occasionally check the dahlia tubers for rot and throw away any that are bad.