Such a prolonged bout of freezing temperatures so early in the winter is uncharacteristic for the UK; I am sure I'm not the only one caught out. However, at first sight, thank goodness there doesn't seem to be as much damage as expected.
I was really surprised when dahlia tubers close to the surface and pulled up with dead stems were not frozen; they had only had a covering of loose, dead leaves. I find leaving the old vegetation gives much protection to the over-wintering tubers - it's a bit messy, and it also shelters pests, but it is good for both the tubers and the soil (dead leaves gradually break down and help structure; many are even pulled down by earthworms).
However, the winter is still young. As usual, I have probably spoken too soon.
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