November 2024 Things to do now

Do this for the best spring tulip show!

It’s that magical time of year—tulip-planting season! In my opinion, there’s nothing more exciting than this important task. While you can plant these beauties anytime from now until Christmas, the sooner you get them in the ground, the sooner you’ll be rewarded with vibrant spring blooms!

The key to a stunning tulip display lies in ensuring excellent drainage. This is especially important if you intend to leave them in the ground instead of digging them up after they fade. So, get planting those bulbs now and get ready to witness your garden transform into a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colour next April to May!

Here are a few tips to get the best out of your bulbs:

  • Tulip bulbs are best planted in November, but they can also be planted as late as December or January and will still bloom in spring.
  • Once the foliage has died back, dig up the bulbs, discarding any damaged or diseased ones. Let the healthy bulbs dry, then store them in trays or nets in a dark, dry place, like a garage or basement, and replant in autumn.
  • The lifespan of tulips varies by variety and climate. Modern cultivars typically bloom for 3 to 5 years, but bulbs lose vitality quickly, so planting new bulbs each year is recommended for the best results.
  • A common question among gardeners is why their tulips fail to bloom. The main reason is the specific environment needed for tulips to thrive. Notably, tulip bulbs planted in pots are unlikely to bloom again.
  • Tulip bulbs should be planted at a depth of 6-8 inches, with 8 inches recommended in areas with harsh frost to protect them from cold and animals. Species tulips can be planted at a shallower depth of about 4 inches since they are less likely to be targeted by animals.