How to Dig Up Flower Bulbs

Overview

Bulbs add perennial color to the garden. Spring bulbs flower in early spring and fade back by summer. Summer blooming bulbs add color from early to late summer depending on the variety. Both may need occasional digging up and dividing to avoid overcrowding, and summer bulbs may also require digging up each fall for winter storage. Digging up bulbs is a chance to expand your bulb gardens for just the cost of a little effort. The new bulbs can be planted elsewhere in the garden to add more blooms to your beds.

Step 1

Dig up spring bulbs six weeks after flowers fade. Dig up summer bulbs after the foliage dies back in fall or after the first fall frost, depending on which happens first.

Step 2

Dig around the plant with a blunt-tipped trowel. Dig down to a depth of 6 to 8 inches then gently slide the trowel under the bulb, taking care not to nick it. Lift the bulbs from the ground.

Step 3

Brush off any excess soil from the bulbs and inspect them for signs of damage. Dispose of any with cuts or soft spots.

Step 4

Break apart bulbs by twisting them apart if necessary. Bulbs will easily snap apart.

Step 5

Replant bulbs in a well drained, full sun bed to a depth three times their width immediately after digging up. Store bulbs in dry vermiculite at 55 degrees F, if not immediately replanting after digging up.