Yes, that's right. When the stems are brown, you can cut them off. Most people leave an inch or so still sticking out of the bulb. Elaine doesn't mean to dig them up and let them dry a bit before separating: let the soil dry a bit. The bulbs will tolerate drying out well, but really prefer not to be. If the bulbs don't want to break apart cleanly, then leave them together and plant.
