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Fall planting bulbs #927858

Asked April 08, 2026, 5:13 PM EDT

I'm wondering if I can undig bulbs after they finished their flowering cycle and store them in a garage setting until replanting elsewhere in coming fall

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Yes, spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths can be dug up after they have finished flowering, and their foliage has died back. Once you dig up the bulbs, gently brush off extra soil and allow the bulbs to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated place for several days. For summer storage, place the bulbs in paper bags or mesh containers and keep the bulbs in a cool, dry place like a garage or basement where temperatures stay between 50–70°F. Avoid storing the bulbs in plastic bags, as the plastic bag can trap moisture and lead to rot. Check regularly for any signs of mold or decay, removing moldy or decaying bulbs right away.


According to University Extension Services, proper storage helps keep bulb health and vigor for the next planting season. For more information, see these articles from Michigan State University Extension and Iowa State University Extension, which offer suggestions for digging up, curing, and storing bulbs safely for fall planting. Michigan State University Extension: "Storing tender summer flowering bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers for winter". The web site is located here: Storing tender, summer-flowering bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers for winter - Gardening in Michigan and Iowa State University Extension: "Care of spring flowering bulbs after bloom”. The Web site is located here: Care of Spring-Flowering Bulbs after Bloom | Yard and Garden


Thank you for your question and have a great gardening season.


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