Unfortunately, conditions in our area are too dry for this bulb to naturalize. Once the foliage has withered and died back, or after a killing frost, dig the bulbs up and place them in a well-ventilated area to dry. Gently remove any soil that is clinging to the bulbs, but do not wash them. Place them into a container such a box or nylon stocking and cover in dry peat moss, vermiculite or perlite. To prevent the spread of rot, do not allow the bulbs to touch each other.
Most basements are too warm for proper storage.
A heated garage is a good place, as long as the storage area used is well off the floor and away from doors. Lois Hole is the author of Northern Vegetable Gardening and is currently working on a second book about annual flowers. Canadiana Group Inc. All rights reserved.