I bought a dahlia from the reduced-for-quick-sale buggy at the grocery store about a month ago. At that time it still had blooms, but I think the blooming has finished for the season. It's in a one-gallon container and I'm not sure of the proper way to store a dahlia until it gets planted.

It's not a dinner-plate dahlia. The bloom was about 2-inches in diameter and the flower was pale purple and white.

From my reading, I should plant it in the spring in NC. Some books suggest taking the plant out of the container and storing the bulb in newspaper or compost over winter. So I was wondering if keeping it in the original container would be the same as storing it in compost.

I don't have a garage or basement to overwinter, but I'm sure my Mom will let me keep in their garage next to her ferns. Parents also have a fabulous compost pile so I can overwinter it in the compost is necessary.

Thanks!