PLANTING TULIPS
HOW TO PLANT TULIP BULBS
Planting tulip bulbs in the fall is a great way to enjoy early spring color in your garden. Available in a wide range of colors, they add a welcome burst of color after winter. Once planted, they require minimal upkeep and can bloom for several years in a row.
Planting Tulips in Cages
Planting tulips in bulb cages can be a creative and practical way to showcase these beautiful flowers, while protecting them from potential pests. Bulb cages, often made of wire, plastic or mesh, help deter animals like squirrels from digging up the bulbs while allowing the tulips to grow through. Bulb cages can be purchased online at Brecks.
BULB PLANTING STEPS
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1. CHOOSE A SUITABLE LOCATION
Select a planting location that receives the appropriate amount of sunlight for tulips. Most tulips prefer full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade.
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2. PREPARE THE SOIL
Ensure the soil is well-draining. Tulips do not like to sit in waterlogged soil. If planting in the ground, loosen the soil to a depth of about 8-10 inches. If planting in containers, use a high-quality potting mix.
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3. INSTALL BULB CAGES
Place the bulb cages in the planting area. These cages should be positioned with the open end facing upwards. Ensure they are deep enough in the soil to prevent animals from reaching the bulbs.
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4. FILL CAGES WITH SOIL
Add a layer of soil inside the bulb cages. This will serve as the initial planting medium for the tulip bulbs.
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5. PLANT TULIP BULBS
Plant the tulip bulbs inside the bulb cages, spacing them according to the recommendations on the bulb packaging. Plant them with the pointed end facing up. The bulb cages help protect the bulbs from being dug up by animals.
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6. COVER WITH SOIL
Once the tulip bulbs are in place, cover them with additional soil until the bulbs are at the recommended planting depth. Follow the guidelines on the bulb packaging for the appropriate depth.
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7. WATER THOROUGHLY
Water the planted bulbs thoroughly to settle the soil and provide moisture for the bulbs. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
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8. MULCH (OPTIONAL)
Apply a layer of mulch around the bulb cages to help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and deter weeds.
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9. MONITOR & CARE
Keep an eye on the tulips as they emerge and grow. Water when needed and provide support if the plants become top-heavy. Once the tulips have finished blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally before removing it.