Tulip Growing Guide
Brrrrrr
Tulips need a winter-like chilling period to prepare them for their splendid spring show. Warm outdoor temperatures in mild climates just don't provide the cold required for great blooms.
For the best blooms, careful cooling for just the right number of days, at tightly controlled humidity and temperatures, is required. STore in the fridge for up to 6 weeks and plant before the end of May.
Outdoor Beds
- Find a location where the soil drains well. If there are still puddles of water 5-6 hours after a hard rain, scout out another site. Or amend the soil with the addition of organic material to raise the level 10cm to improve the drainage. Peat moss, compost, ground bark or decomposed manure all work well and are widely available.
- Plant your tulips where they will get early- and/or late-day sun, but not a midday scorching. Take advantage of the shadows created by trees, your house, a fence or other structures during the hottest part of the day. (If you live in a costal fog belt area, you tulips will thrive in a full sun location.) Provide a little protection for tall tulips if your garden is windy.
- Peel off the brown tunic, or outer skin, that protects each bulb's bottom or basil plate. This is where the roots will appear. Removing the skin makes the process easier for the bulb and it a time-tested growers' secret.
- Plant bulbs 10 cm below the surface. (Northern gardeners must plant 15 cm down) Spacing of 10 cm apart is ideal.
- Water well; thoroughly soak the soil.
Pots, Tubs & Windowboxes
- Start with containers of good quality, well-drained soil.
- Plant your tulips where they will get early- and/or late-day sun, but not a midday scorching. Take advantage of the shadows created by trees, your house, a fence or other structures during the hottest part of the day. (If you live in a coastal fog belt area, you tulips will thrive in a full sun location.) Provide a little protection for tall tulips if your garden is windy.
- Peel off the brown tunic, or outer skin, that protects each bulbs bottom or basil plate. This is where the roots will appear. Removing the skin makes the process easier for the bulb and it a time-tested growers' secret.
- Plant your tulips close to each other, with hips almost touching, for the most brilliant display. Tuck them down 10cm into the soil.
- Water well and get ready for a sensational show.
