Author: Hugo Bolzonello

Did you know that tulips didn't originate in Holland even though they celebrate the tulip festival?  Tulips actually came from Turkey.  Tulip means turban in the Turkish language.  Despite the misconception of where tulips came from they are one of the most popular, beautiful flowers today.

The flower experts would say that Tulips are perennials. However, they can be regarded as annuals.  The way you need to care for them and their blooming cycle support this.  The end of October through the beginning of November is the time when gardeners should plan their precious tulip bulbs.

Purple Tulip

What type of soil is best for tulip bulbs?  Sandy soil is the best option.  Sandy soil helps with drainage from the tulip.  Verify that you use a planter properly otherwise your tulips might not drain.  If tulips don't drain properly then they can rot more easily.

If you do not have naturally sandy soil in the area where you live, it is fine to just add some sand and a little compost to your soil.  Whatever you do, make sure that the soil is fairly dry when digging and planting bulbs.

There is no specific depth that the experts recommend you plant a tulip.  This is due in large part to the fact that tulip bulbs come in a wide variety of sizes.  For a rough idea of how deep to plant the bulbs, measure the length. Then, multiply that length by three and plant the bulbs at that depth.  Although not an ideal solution, this rough idea will net you more tulips in the springtime than simply planting your bulbs at a uniform depth.

Tulips are great at warding off flower disease.  However, they are not immune to everything.  Usually you will see "tulip fire" which leaves the stems stunted and deformed. Brown patches will surface on the stunted stems and leaves. If this occurs then you need to completely get rid of the tulips and start again.

If you don't want to buy new bulbs every year you can dig up the tulip bulbs each season.  Make sure that you keep them in a cool, dry place until you can plant them again. They can rot even when they are not in the ground. Therefore, proper storage is of the utmost importance. You should dig up your bulbs when the leaves and foliage are completely dry.

Orange Tulip

Tulips have a beautfiul color and charming aroma.  How can you enjoy this beauty longer?  Add a little sugar to the water in the vase and your tulips will live longer. They will live wonderfully in your vase for about a week. Tulips are rich, colorful flowers that can add happiness to anyone's day.

Article provided courtesy of Hugo Bolzonello of : (US Tulip) - Article distributed by HydroponicSearch.com - The Tulip Search Engine and community.