5 Tips for Storing Spring Bulbs Over Winter

Keep bulbs at 35–45°F Temperatures between 35 and 45°F are ideal. Warmer and they sprout or rot; colder and they freeze.

Use a refrigerator crisper drawer if needed If your garage or basement isn’t cool enough, the crisper drawer works well. Keep bulbs away from fruit—ethylene gas from apples and pears can kill flower buds.

Choose breathable storage Paper bags or mesh sacks allow airflow. Avoid sealed plastic bags, which trap moisture and encourage mold.

Check bulbs every two weeks Inspect for softness or mold and discard any damaged bulbs immediately. This prevents rot from spreading.

Store for up to six months Properly stored bulbs can last a few months, possibly up to six. Store them right and you buy time; store them wrong and you buy disappointment.