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Tulip Bulb Planting Tips
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Garden Planting
Zones 2-8
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Plant bulbs starting from the end of September
through October when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50°F.
Be sure to plant approximately six weeks before the ground
freezes to allow sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root
best in cool soil and once rooted undergo natural changes
that keep them from freezing. Choose a planting location in
full sun to part shade as tulips need at least 6 hours of
sunlight a day. Be sure to plant in an area with good drainage
and plant bulbs about 4 inches apart for the best look. Also,
clusters of 5 bulbs or more look best in the landscape and
are far more appealing than straight rows of bulbs. To plant,
dig a hole 6 to 8 inches deep and mix a good bulb fertilizer
into the planting hole with a light layer of dirt. DO NOT
use bone meal, as it will attract dogs and rodents that may
dig up your bulbs. Bulb fertilizers are lower in nitrogen,
and can be found at most nurseries and home centers. Plant
the bulbs with the pointed ends up and cover with soil. Water
in if soil is dry to aid the rooting process.
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| Zones 9 and above |
Tulips are generally regarded
as an annual in warmer climates If you live in a warmer climate,
your bulbs will need a cooling off period prior to planting.
Upon receipt of your bulbs, put your bulbs in the bottom drawer
of the refrigerator, not the freezer, and away from all fresh
fruit. (Fresh fruit produces ethylene gas as it ripens, which
is harmful to your bulbs.) After two months of refrigeration
and when the ground has cooled, plant your bulbs as directed
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| Container Planting |
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Planting bulbs in a container is a good way
to enjoy tulips for those with limited garden space or those
with a high population of burrowing pests. Select a pot that
is at least 10 inches deep and has drainage holes. Add a small
layer of gravel or rock to aid with drainage. Add several
inches of good bulb planting soil which can be found at most
garden centers. Mix in a good bulb fertilizer. Plant your
bulbs 6 inches deep and a few inches apart. You can plant
your bulbs a bit closer together when using a container for
a nice massed planting. Cover your bulbs with soil and lightly
water in. Avoid continuous overwatering as your bulbs will
likely rot.
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| Maintenance for Tulips |
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In late winter to early spring when the green
shoots are about 2 inches above ground, sprinkle in a good
bulb fertilizer and water lightly. In Oregon, Mother Nature
takes care of the watering for us, but if you have a dry spell
in March, water your bulbs once a week. Your tulips will continue
to grow and will bloom in mid to late April. Once the bloom
fades, pinch off the bloom so the plants energy goes into
the bulb and not into setting a seed pod. If cutting tulips,
leave a few leaves at the base as this allows the bulb to
gather energy for the following year's bloom. If you plan
to keep your bulbs in the ground or in a pot for the following
year, make sure they are not in an area where they will be
watered throughout the summer, as your bulbs will most likely
rot. You can lift your bulbs each year in June if you keep
them in a cool, dry location throughout the summer. Then replant
in the fall.
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| USDA
Hardiness Zone by Zip Code |
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