Nurseries and garden centers abound in the fall with boxes and bins of fat tulip bulbs. And this is the ideal time to plant for a showy display in the spring. Look for plump, firm bulbs. In the world of tulips, bigger really is better because the biggest bulbs produce the largest flowers.
Contrary to popular belief which places the tulip’s origin in Holland, it is actually native to Turkey and derives its botanical name (Tulipa) from its resemblance to a Turkish turban (tulpend). Introduced into Holland in the 16th century by the botanist, Clusius, tulips became so popular in Holland that people started speculating in bulbs, resulting in the famous tulipomania craze of the 17th century. Extravagant prices were paid for bulbs in new colors and unusual shapes and normally sensible Dutchmen went heavily into debt illegally trading this hot commodity.
Tulip bulbs are self-sufficient little storehouses of power, providing all the required nourishment for the bulb to sprout and grow. They do need a dormant period over the winter to get ready to show off their spring finery. In cold climates, plant the bulbs as soon as you get them, and definitely by November. In more temperate climates, store bulbs in the veggie drawer of the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks to mimic nature’s cold weather and force them into dormancy. Keep them in the mesh bag they came in or put them in a paper bag. Be sure to keep them away from ripening fruit which produces a gas that can rot the bulbs. Plant them October through January and treat as annuals.
To plant tulips in containers, choose a good sized pot, at least 10-12” in diameter, with good drainage. Fill the pot about 2/3 full with potting soil and mix in a balanced, slow release granular fertilizer. Put the bulbs in, points up (they can touch each other but not the sides of the pot), and cover with soil so the tips are just below the soil surface. Give the container moderate water to start the rooting process. During the fall and winter, don’t let the container dry out completely, but avoid too much water or the bulbs will be prone to rot. In cold climates, containers can be stored in the garage over the winter to avoid damage from the cold. Come spring, position the containers in full sun for the bloom period.
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