As we put hundreds of bulbs into the Homeward Bound Memorial Garden for next spring, it was time to raise the summer ones for winter. With more than a week of rain in the forecast, it was time to lift the Dahlias that delighted us for so many months.
To protect them from frost and rot, they will be dried, stored in vermiculite or sand, and then divided next spring, so we can grace the garden again next summer and fall. The space looks so empty, but beneath it waits Allium bulbs for a late spring/early summer show while the Dahlias get started again.
With everything dying back now, I drew a map of the Perennial and Hummingbird beds, so I would remember where everything is. An overlay of tracing paper indicates where the bulbs are planted. Now I have only one problem. Space!
Ina was right. No more plants! My shopping days are over. I swear.
Gardens For Goldens 
My dahlias were gifts from a gardening friend – they were special. But, they started to fade away last year and this year several didn’t grow at all and I only had one beautiful red bloom. I retired them this fall and will have to seek replacements next season. I’m hoping my friend has more to share.
And they were lifted annually?
Lovely flowers!! Awesome!!
Thank you!