Will dried out bulbs grow?

Dried bulbs can often cause people to become anxious, however, most bulbs can be revived with the appropriate steps. A mildly shriveled bulb can usually still recapture the physiological energy needed to recover, and when the bulb feels almost papery and light, it will probably not bounce back. I have successfully revived neglected tulips by soaking them overnight and the spring flowers were every bit as beautiful as fresh-stored bulbs. It's always worth trying to bring a bulb back to life before you throw it away.

Humidity in your area will affect your success in revival. In dry locations, wrap the re-hydrated bulbs in a wet burlap bag for 24 hours before storage. I have a client in Arizona who was able to save 60% of their dried irises using this method. For coastal gardeners, keep reuse soaking time to about 90 minutes or less to prevent rotting.

Recovery is hampered by ethylene gas released from stored fruit. Therefore, we should continue to keep any rehydration bulbs away from stored apples or tomatoes, because I recently lost a bunch of dahlias I was trying to get to come back from the roots from a nearby bunch of bananas - I now use one of those ethylene gas absorbing packets in shared spaces. Maintaining airflow is also extremely important during recovery times.

To assess whether a bulb is still viable, take a crosswise slice of one of the bulbs. If it is firm, with a creamy feel, it still may be saved, but if there is brown or crumbly flesh, it is a failure. Last season, 40% of "dead" gladiolus corms, did bloom as a result of the viability test after cutting them. Never assume a bulb is dead without cutting into it.

Read the full article: How to Store Bulbs: Expert Guide for Healthy Blooms