Tulip Bulb Growth

Time Frame

• Plant tulip bulbs once the soil has lowered to 60 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. Keep in mind that the exact time of year you should plant the bulb will depend upon the hardiness zone of your location.

Instructions

• Plant tulip bulbs root-side down, with the pointy tip facing upward. Although tulips may grow if planted upside down, it puts more stress on the plant. For extremely cold areas, such as Minnesota, plant the bulbs deeper than the instructions indicate. One month after planting, apply a layer of mulch or straw over the bedding in areas of the country that will experience extreme cold. Water the area right after planting, but not again until leaves sprout in the spring.

Considerations

• Tulips may be forced to bloom in winter months indoors by cooling the bulbs in a refrigerator for several weeks. Once planted indoors, the warmth of the room tricks the plant into thinking it is spring time.