Most flower bulbs are capable of remaining in the soil for several years before they need to be thinned out for good production. Tender flower bulbs should be lifted each year, and stored during the winter so the bulbs continue to produce the following season. Before storing the bulbs, you can treat them with a homemade natural fungicide to protect the bulbs during storage.
Powdered sulfur is a natural element that is used to protect against many forms of fungi. The powder is available at most garden centers and farmer's supply houses. The sulfur powder may cause damage to the bulbs when the temperatures are above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Powdered sulfur is safe for use by the home gardener, and does not pose a problem from direct contact with the skin. The powder can irritate your eyes or lungs and nasal passages. It is best to wear gloves and goggles when working with sulfur. To apply the fungicide, dip the bulbs in the sulfur powder to coat the exterior, and shake off the excess.
Hydrogen Peroxide Dip
An economical homemade fungicide is a hydrogen peroxide dip that works as a treatment for flower bulbs when you prepare them for storage. The dip should be a one percent solution, which means the three percent hydrogen peroxide available from the drug store should be mixed at a ratio of one part three percent peroxide to two parts of water before use. Dip the bulbs in the solution for one hour so the bulbs are protected. Once you dip the bulbs, you must let them air dry before storing.
Disinfect with Bleach
Chorline bleach acts as a fungicide when you dip the bulbs in a 1 percent solution for an hour, just as you would with the hydrogen peroxide. Make the solution by adding 1 part bleach to 99 parts water. This equates to approximately 6 1/2 cups of water to 1 tablespoon of bleach. Mix the solution to disperse the bleach throughout the water. Soak the bulbs for an hour, and spread them on a screen or drying tray. Allow the bulbs to dry completely before storing them for the next season.
Proper Bulb Storage
Lift the bulbs from the garden with a garden fork once the leaves have turned yellow. Wash the bulbs to remove any remaining soil before treating them. Allow the bulbs to cure for two or three days before putting them in storage. Store the bulbs in a mesh bag that is hung in a cool, dark area. You can store the bulbs in a single layer on a screen if you prefer, so the air circulates around them. The proper storage temperature for most bulbs should be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit but below 70 degrees.
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