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How to Grow Tulips

By stacy ling

Gardening Tips & Tricks

Want to grow beautiful tulips this year? This beginner's guide offers everything you need to know about planting, caring for, and enjoying tulips.  

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Purchasing Tulip Bulbs Selecting healthy tulip bulbs. Look for firm bulbs that feel heavy for their size, with a dry, papery  outer shell intact (though some varieties may have naturally loose  tunics). Avoid any bulbs that are soft, squishy, or moldy. Choose bulbs that  are at least 1 inch in diameter, as larger bulbs generally  produce larger flowers. 

When to Plant Tulips Fall is the ideal time to plant tulip bulbs, typically a few weeks before the ground freezes. Knowing when to plant tulips in locality will ensure optimal growth.

Location and Soil Tulips prefer a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Amending soil with compost or well-rotted manure can improve drainage and provide nutrients.

Planting Depth and Spacing Planting depth is crucial. Generally, bulbs should be planted about  three times their height. Proper spacing is also important, with bulbs  typically placed 4-6 inches apart to allow for adequate growth.

How to Water Tulips require regular watering during the spring growth period, especially if the weather is dry. Avoid overwatering, as tulip bulbs are prone to rot in soggy soil. Because I garden in the northeast, my rainy spring climate takes  care of watering my tulips for the most part. 

How to Fertilize Tulips A low-nitrogen fertilizer applied at planting and again in early  spring when the shoots appear will support healthy growth. Avoid  high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage leaf growth at the  expense of flowers. I like to use this organic fertilizer      for spring flowering bulbs.

How to Cut Tulips For beautiful indoor displays, cut tulips when the buds are just  starting to color but before they fully open. Use sharp scissors to cut  the stem diagonally for optimal water absorption.

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Follow along to learn more about growing tulips.

Gardening Tips & Tricks

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