El Paso

No, you cannot leave Dahlia El Paso bulbs in the ground year-round, especially in regions with frost or freezing temperatures. Dahlias are not frost-hardy, and their tubers can rot or be damaged if exposed to prolonged cold or wet conditions. After the first frost kills the foliage, the tubers should be carefully dug up, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place for the winter. If you live in a warmer climate with mild winters (zones 8-10), you may be able to leave them in the ground, provided the soil is well-drained and protected with a thick mulch layer to insulate against cooler temperatures.

If you forgot to plant your Dahlia El Paso bulbs during the recommended spring planting season, don’t worry—you can still plant them if the growing season permits. Dahlias need at least 90-120 days to grow and bloom, so if you plant them late, they may flower later in the summer or early fall. However, if it’s too late in the season or frost is approaching, you should store the tubers in a cool, dry, dark place until the following spring. Proper storage will ensure the tubers remain viable and ready to grow when the weather warms up again.

No, Dahlia El Paso bulbs are not frost-hardy, so you must protect them from freezing temperatures. Frost can severely damage or kill the tubers, rendering them unusable for the following growing season. To protect them, dig up the tubers after the first frost has killed the foliage. Let them dry out for a few days in a cool, shaded area, then remove excess soil and store them in a well-ventilated container filled with peat moss, sand, or sawdust. If you live in a frost-free climate, you can keep them in the ground, but ensure they’re mulched to protect against occasional cold snaps.