Containerised
bulbs often need to be lifted so that the container can be
re-used. Many summer-flowering bulbs are tender and in exposed
gardens need to be lifted in autumn and stored for the winter.
Other bulbs, such as tulips require exposure to high summer
temperatures to ripen the bulbs for the following year.
It is essential that bulbs are not lifted too early. A minimum of six weeks should have passed after the end of flowering before lifting. Until this time the bulbs should be watered and fed with liquid tomato feed to prolong the life of the foliage, which needs to manufacture and store sufficient reserves to enable the bulb to flower next year.
Once the foliage has died down carefully lift and clean the bulbs. Roots can be trimmed back and the outer layers of loose, flaking tunic removed.
Only healthy bulbs of a good size should be kept. Damaged or diseased bulbs must be discarded. Lay bulbs on a tray to dry for 24 hours, then dust with sulphur, place in labelled paper bags or nets and store in a dry, cool place.