The Best Time To Plant Tulips, According To An Expert

When the South begins to alight in tulips, you know spring is well on its way. But before those glorious blooms start to burst forth from the earth, there are a few things to keep in mind. From the best time to plant in the South to how to care for your bulbs once in ground, these are the tulip tips you need to know for springtime success.

Factors To Consider

Weather is going to be a big consideration when it comes to successfully planting tulips. Montgomery says the tulips should be planted about six to eight weeks before the first frost in most climates where tulips can be grown. “If planted too early, the warm temperatures could ‘cook’ or rot the bulbs or cause deformities in the flowers,” she warns.

While it’s ideal to simply plant your bulbs in the fall and see them sprout up come early spring, in warmer climates (zones 8 to 11) you may have to pre-chill your bulbs, shares the tulip expert.

Best Time To Plant Tulips

Planting time is going to be highly dependent on your region as the ground shouldn’t be too cold or too warm. “Planting too early isn’t a good idea and planting after the ground is frozen is equally bad,” says Montgomery. While tulips are best suited for USDA planting zone 3 to 7, they can be successfully planted in zones 8 to 11 as long as they’re pre-chilled.

“A good rule of thumb is to plant tulips in zones 6 to 7 in mid- to late-October or November,” says Montgomery. “In zones 8 to 11, plant pre-chilled bulbs in January or February.” The bulb will need to grow roots before the soil freezes so they can enjoy a nice long cold period before they bloom in the spring. “In general, it’s a good idea to wait until night time temperatures are about 40 degrees,” Montgomery suggests.

Pre-Chilling Bulbs

Montgomery says that due to tulips, crocus, and daffodils hailing from climates where winters see colder weather, they require pre-chilling in areas where frosts are rare (zones 8 to 11, we’re looking at you). The bulbs should be chilled for at least 10 to 14 weeks. You can chill them for longer but not shorter. “For best results, begin the chilling process in mid-October, and the bulbs will be ready to plant in January or February,” Montgomery says.

Bulbs can be stored in a refrigerator, but you’ll need to make sure it’s not also storing fruit as the produce will release ethylene gas as it ripens, which could harm the bulbs. A ventilated bag is also necessary in order to ensure the bulbs don’t dry out.

“Plant as soon as they are removed from the refrigerator, and they will bloom about four to six weeks later,” Montgomery says.

If this sounds like a lot of work before the planting season has even started, Montgomery assures there is good news: You can purchase pre-chilled bulbs. Just beware that pre-chilled bulbs usually don’t bloom for a second season, therefore they should be treated like annuals.

Preparing For Planting

“The most important thing about planting tulips or any other bulb is that the soil must be well drained,” says Montgomery. “Standing water or soggy soil will rot the bulbs.” Tulips do best in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.

To start, begin with an area that is weed-free. Montgomery says you may need to add compost to improve drainage, though raised beds are oftentimes the most ideal solution for areas with heavy soil.

Planting Process

Montgomery suggests planting bulbs 6” to 8” deep and 4” to 5” apart using a bulb auger on a cordless drill to dig the holes to save time. “Just make sure it kicks up enough soil to completely bury the bulbs or add some soil when covering them,” she advises.

For the prettiest display, Montgomery advises planting in groups of seven or more. You’ll want to water immediately after planting, but can usually rely on rainfall thereafter. It’s best to avoid watering unless you have very dry conditions.

As far as sun, tulips can be grown in full sun to light shade, though they might appreciate some afternoon shade in Southern locales.

Care And Maintenance

• Feeding bulbs: Montgomery recommends feeding the tulip bulbs with an organic bulb fertilizer at the time of planting and again in the spring. “After planting, follow the package directions for how much to use and spread it over the planting area, raking it into the soil lightly and watering well,” she says. “As the bulbs emerge in spring, apply the same organic fertilizer again and water it in.” As long as you’re planting healthy bulbs at the right time and in well-drained soil, Montgomery says that should ward off any chance of disease.
• Retaining soil moisture: To help soil retain moisture, Montgomery says mulch is a good idea. While most tulips will have strong stems that don’t require stalking, there are some tall varieties that have heavier flowers which could benefit from support, especially when spring time wind and heavy rain hit.
• Trimming: Montgomery suggests cutting off the flower head once the tulips bloom. “That way, the plant’s energy doesn’t go into trying to produce seed.” She advises letting the foliage wilt completely before cutting it off as it will give the bulb energy for the following year.
  

Why Timing Is Key

• Know your zone: Depending on your zone, you might need to opt for pre-chilled bulbs, which should be treated as annuals.
• Using an organic fertilizer at planting time and again in the spring will keep your tulips in top shape.
• Mulch: To make sure your soil has enough moisture for your bulbs to thrive, apply a layer of mulch over the soil.
• Trim off the flower head after blooming and let the foliage wilt completely before you trim as that will give it the energy it needs for the next growing season.