WHERE TO PLANT

While Tulips are relatively easy to grow, plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil are what makes them happiest.

If you notice puddles of water 5–6 hours after a hard rain, scout out another site or amend the soil with organic material to raise the level 2–3 inches.

Tulips fancy a place with full or partial sun, but in zones 7 or 8 avoid planting them someplace where they might get excessive heat, such as against a south-facing wall or fence.

Choose a spot that allows for bulbs to be planted 4 to 6 inches apart and offers shelter from the wind for taller varieties.

HOW TO PLANT

Plant your bulbs in the fall, 6 to 8 weeks before a hard frost is expected. In colder climates it's best to plant in September or October, and in warmer regions bulbs can be planted in December or later.

• For outdoor landscape planting, find a spot where the soil drains well, and your Tulips will receive full sun to light shade. Dig holes and plant the bulbs 5" apart and 6" to 7" deep at the base with the pointy end facing up.
• For container planting, start with good quality, well-drained soil, and plant your Tulips 4" apart and 6" to 7" deep at the base with the pointy end facing up.
• Water thoroughly, soaking the soil to settle it around the bulbs without air pockets.

HOW TO GROW

• Water as needed during active growth periods, supplying about 1" of moisture per week.
• Leave the foliage in place after blooming has finished for the season. The leaves will gather sunlight to create food through photosynthesis, strengthening the bulb for the future.
• Remove the dry foliage when the leaves turn yellow and die back around early summer to give your Tulips a clean slate before beginning the next growing cycle.
• Allow the soil to dry out when the leaves are absent and the bulbs are dormant.