Dahlias and michaelmas daisies

The only year my dahlias died was the year that I did as the gardening books recommended; dug them up, dried them out and kept them in an airy place in a shed.

I just leave them in and put a good layer of mulch on top and sometimes a layer of fleece when the weather is really cold.

Here's a link to how to over winter dahlia tubers www.saga.co.uk/magazine/home-garden/gardening/advice-tips/winter-garden/how-to-store-dahlias-in-winter

Ah.....so maybe they are not dead! Thanks for your help - I am just off out into the garden while the sun is still shining!

Yes, I would cut back the Dahlia, hope it survives. Michaelmas daisies will die right back and can be cut down to ground level. They will send up fresh leaves next year.
Both these plants give late colour, I wouldn't be without them.