5 Steps to Plant and Care for Tulips
Last updated: February 15, 2017
Do you love seeing your tulips in the beginning of spring?
If you are looking for a weekend project, planting tulips is perfect.
I know when I see tulips in Michigan, I breathe a sigh of relief knowing that spring is on its way. Today, we are going to share 5 steps to plant and care for your tulips. These steps will aid you as you start on your weekend tulip planting project.
- Step 1.
While tulips are perennials, meaning you need to plant every 2 years, many gardeners plant tulips annually. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, this is because:“The North American climate and soil can’t replicate the ancient Anatolian and southern Russian conditions of their birth. Gardeners in our western mountain regions come closest to this climate.”
- Step 2
For best results, plant tulips bulbs quickly after purchase. The best time to plant them is when the soil is 60 degrees F or below and about 6-8 weeks before a hard frost. This timing will range from early fall to late fall. (Right now is a great time to plant them) - Step 3
You want to space the bulbs 4-6 inches apart and around 8 inches deep measuring from the base of the bulb. When planting, set the bulb pointy side up and make sure to water right after you plant. - Step 4
After planting, only water tulips in fall dry spells. Tulips are not fans of being wet. They prefer well-drained, slightly acidic dry to sandy and fertile soil. If you tulips become wet you can use sand, pine bark or anything that can soak up the moisture. - Step 5
It you want to have a vase full of tulips, follow these Old Farmer’s Almanac steps:- Cut the step diagonally
- With newspaper, create a funnel that encases the top 2/3rds of tulip.
- Next, with the funnel, let them stand for 1-2 hours.
- Lastly cut the stems
Tulips are an amazing flower because they come in just about every color and are so easy to care for.
Enjoy planting your tulips this weekend.
