When to Plant Tulips

gift tulips planted at bluebird gardens in fall, then blooming next spring, (charlotte ekker wiggins photo)

“Good afternoon my friend. I have a question. My friend brought a box of tulips for me from Holland. I have never planted tulips, I know they should be planted now, but my raised gardens which will become native flowers with tulip borders, are still planted with tomatoes and peppers. 

First, are they okay planted where there were tom and peppers, and secondly, are they okay until I pull these plants, like late September?

I have grow bags i can put the tulips in, but afraid if we have a wicked winter, they will die in grow bags instead of in the ground.

Also, will raised beds be okay.

Guess that was more than one question, huh? I appreciate your wisdom and guidance.” — Jane D.

When to Plant Tulips

Hi Jane, plant tulips in the fall for spring blooms. In our area you can plant them all fall even into early winter. They need 8-12 weeks of cold exposure so I wouldn’t wait to plant them after December.

They should be fine in raised beds. Add bone meal at the bottom of the hole to give bulb a boost for blooming. Also plant them a good 6-8 inches so they don’t topple over when in bloom.

Also remember tulips are favorite deer and rodent food. If you want to protect your tulips, plant them in chicken wire baskets buried underground.

And speaking of eating, did you know tulips are edible?

Lucky you to have bulbs from Holland. Enjoy!

Charlotte

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