Tulip Flower Bulbs

About Tulip Flower Bulbs

Tulips are planted in autumn and spend the winter underground, using the cold to set the flower they open in spring. Height, form and timing vary widely between varieties, so a mixed planting can stretch the display over several weeks.

When to plant

Plant six to eight weeks before the ground freezes, once soil temperatures have dropped below about 55°F — generally September to November depending on your zone. In zones 8 and warmer, chill bulbs in a paper bag in the refrigerator for eight to twelve weeks first, away from ripening fruit.

Where to plant

Full sun gives the strongest stems, though light afternoon shade extends the bloom in hot regions. Drainage matters more than anything else: bulbs sitting in wet winter soil rot. Raised beds, slopes and containers all work well.

How to plant

Dig six to eight inches deep, set the bulb pointed end up, and space four to six inches apart. Planting in clusters of seven or more reads better than a single row. Backfill, firm the soil, and water once to settle it.

How to care

Let the foliage die back naturally after flowering; it is feeding next year’s bulb. Deadhead spent flowers so energy is not spent on seed. In warm climates most gardeners treat tulips as annuals and replant fresh bulbs each fall.

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