Most Bulbs prefer not to be disturbed and can be left in the ground for
many years. But beware of overcrowding. When too many bulbs try to occupy
the same space, they will be less vigorous and flowers will be fewer and
smaller, an indication that it's time to transplant them.
Lifting Bulbs
If you lift your Bulbs, they should be stored in a well ventilated place
and replanted in the fall. Every five years Daffodils and Crocus should be dug and replanted
to prevent overcrowding. The first sign of overcrowding will be a decrease
in the flower size, uneven bloom and uneven plant height. When this
occurs, dig, spread bulbs out and replant immediately.
Summer - Less hardy bulbs such as Dahlias or Begonias should be lifted each
fall. It is best to lift after frost has blackened foliage, gently spade
up the bulbs, being careful not
to cut into the bulbs/tubers and damage them. If you prefer to lift the
bulbs before frost has hit, you can dig your bulbs early and store them in
a well-ventilated, frost-free area until they are dry. Just let the leaves
remain on the bulbs until they become dry.
Most bulbs should be dried for about a week before you prepare them for
storage. Pull any loose any remaining foliage, shake the bulbs gently to
remove any clinging soil, dust them with fungicide powder to prevent rot
and place them in unsealed paper bags or old nylon stockings with some dry
peat moss to keep the bulbs from touching one another. Store them away
from sunlight in a cool, dry basement, cellar, garage or shed at 60° to
65°F. Avoid temperatures below 50° or above 70°F unless different
instructions are given for a particular bulbs. Follow specific storing
instructions for tender bulbs, such as Dahlias,Gladiolus and Begonias.
Summer - Less hardy bulbs such as 
Planting and Care of Bulbs: 
