Home Garden

How to Grow Tulips From Seeds vs. Bulbs

Most gardeners grow tulips from bulbs, the thick storage organs that some plants create to store energy and protect themselves from heat or drought. Tulip bulbs are planted in the fall and bloom in the spring. You can also grow tulips from seeds, but it is much more difficult. Seeds take several years to produce flowers, and the tulips that grow from seeds may have a different color or size than you expected.

Things You'll Need

  • Bulbs
  • Mulch
  • Seeds
  • Mesh screen
  • Refrigerator
Show More

Instructions

  1. Growing From Bulbs

    • 1

      Plant bulbs about 8 inches deep in well-drained soil. For best results, plant tulips in an area that receives full sun.

    • 2

      Water bulbs after planting.

    • 3

      Cover the bed with 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch, such as wood chips or pine straw. This helps insulate the soil and conserve moisture.

    • 4

      Water again after the tulip buds first appear, if necessary. If the soil is dry, water deeply.

    Growing From Seeds

    • 5

      Pick tulip seeds once they become dry and soft. Let the seeds dry out on screens.

    • 6

      Store tulip seeds in the crisper of your refrigerator for about 90 days.

    • 7

      Plant seeds in the early fall, covering them lightly with soil or compost. Plant seeds in a location that receives full sun. Water until the soil is moist, but don't let it become soggy.

    • 8

      Mulch lightly with peat moss or a similar organic mulch to protect the seeds.