Potting Soil for Tulips

Considerations

• Tulips are native to Persia and Turkey, where the soil is somewhat sandy and drains well. Don't overwater the soil or the bulbs will rot.

Types

• Any potting soil labeled for general houseplant use that drains well is appropriate for growing tulips. Mix fertilizer, such as a granular 5-10-10 or a 9-9-6 for bulbs, into the potting soil according to the manufacturer's directions.

Temperature

• Tulips must undergo a dormancy period and experience cool temperatures to grow best. For indoor plants, the planted bulbs should be kept in a dark, cool place for 8 to 14 weeks at 35 to 40 degrees F. This could be an unheated basement or garage. A spare refrigerator could be used but it should not contain any fruits or vegetables. They they emit ethylene gas, which can abort the bud inside the bulb.