The time is fast-approaching for the fall planting of your tulip bulbs--one of the most beloved sights of spring! These showy blooms require a cool, moist winter and a warm, dry summer for optimum growth. If you are ordering by mail, these orders should be in by now, or very shortly, to ensure you get what you want; don't hesitate. If you live in an area that doesn't have an adequate cool season, you can store them in the refrigerator at temperatures between 40 and 45 degrees for 8-10 weeks. (Don't store these bulbs with food, however. If you have an empty , extra frig, it's perfect for bulbs). If you can't plant your bulbs right after getting them, store them in a dry place where temperatures stay between 60-70 degrees, stored in something like a mesh bag, or paper bag with holes punched in it, or even spread out on a tray, for good air circulation. If you go to the time and effort of planting bulbs, make sure that they are quality ones--small, cheap bulbs may have not been handled or stored properly. High temperatures destroy the quality of the bulbs and ultimately the flowers they will produce. Plant bulbs in an area that receives at least 5 hours of sun a day. (morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal). Well-drained soil is best. Dig soil deeply and improve your soil if necessary. I use a dutch bulb fertilizer, mixed in well with my soil when planting. A tulip's base needs to be about 8 inches below the surface. 10 inches is even better! This keeps them cool in the summertime and discourages them from breaking up into lots of small, non-flowering bulbs after the first year. (Deep planting also makes it easier to fill in with annuals, or later growing perennials. I like to plant a variety of bulbs--ones that bloom early, mid- and late, ensuring I have blooms all season long.
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