FAQs: How To Plant Tulip Bulbs?

Tulips bring a touch of elegance, colour, and character to any garden. Whether you’re planting for the first time or refining your spring display, growing Tulips starts with choosing quality bulbs and taking a thoughtful approach. At DutchGrown, we share years of experience to help you plant, care for, and enjoy Tulips that bloom beautifully. Learn how to grow Tulips the right way—easily, confidently, and with lasting results.

What Are Tulips?
Tulips are vibrant, spring-blooming bulbs belonging to the Liliaceae family. Known for their smooth, cup-shaped petals, they come in a wide range of colours, from bright reds and yellows to purples, pinks, and whites. Native to Central Asia, Tulips are one of the world’s most popular flowers and are often associated with the Netherlands, where they thrive in cool climates.

What Are The Different Types Of Tulip Bulbs?
Tulips come in various types, including Single Early, Darwin Hybrid, Parrot, Species, and Lily Tulips. Each variety has its own distinctive features: Single Early varieties bloom early and are compact, while Darwin Hybrids are tall and vibrant. Parrot Tulips have frilled petals, and Species Tulips are small and perfect for naturalising.

What Is The Rarest Colour Of Tulips?
Tulips come in almost every colour imaginable, from pure white to deep purples that nearly appear black. However, the rarest and most elusive colour for Tulips is blue. Despite extensive breeding efforts, true blue Tulips have never been successfully produced. The closest you’ll find are shades of purple or lilac.

What Do Tulips Smell Like?
Tulips generally have a subtle fragrance, often described as grassy or green, with hints of an apple-like aroma.

Are Tulips Easy To Grow?
Most Tulips are relatively easy to grow, making them a fantastic choice for both beginner and seasoned gardeners. With minimal effort, you can enjoy their stunning blooms every spring.

What Month Do Tulips Bloom?
Tulips typically bloom from early to late spring, depending on the variety. Early-blooming varieties may start as early as March, while mid to late-season Tulips often bloom in April and May. For more information, check out our guide ‘When Is The Tulip Season?’.

How Tall Do Tulips Grow?
The height of Tulips varies depending on the variety. Darwin Hybrids are the tallest. On the other hand, Species Tulips, often referred to as ‘Dwarf Tulips’ or ‘Botanical Tulips’, are much shorter. Greigii Tulips, though still short, are a bit taller than other miniature varieties.

What Is A Good Size Tulip Bulb?
For the best blooms, look for Tulip bulbs that are at least 12 cm or larger in circumference. At DutchGrown, we ship these top-sized bulbs for the best possible results. Always check the size description to ensure you're getting the best bulbs for your garden.

Where Do Tulips Grow Best?
Tulips grow best in full or afternoon sun. In warmer climates, however, it’s best to plant them in a spot with some shade or only morning sun, as Tulips don’t tolerate excessive heat.

How Many Tulip Bulbs Should I Plant Together?
The number of Tulip bulbs you plant together depends on the effect you're after. For a fuller, more vibrant display, gardeners typically plant 50 or more bulbs in a group. A good guideline is to place 9 to 12 bulbs per square foot (75-100 per square metre), or for larger varieties, 50 to 75 bulbs per square metre. To create a dense, lush look, space bulbs about 5 to 6.5 cm apart. If you prefer a less crowded display, opt for 10 cm spacing.

What Can I Plant On Top Of Bulbs In Pots?
To add colour and interest while waiting for your bulbs to bloom, you can plant winter-flowering Pansies or Violas on top of bulbs in pots. These hardy plants will bloom throughout winter, providing vibrant colour until your Tulips or other bulbs begin to flower, typically in late January.

What Is The Best Month To Plant Tulip Bulbs?
The best time to plant Tulip bulbs is in the autumn, once the soil has cooled following the summer. For the UK, October or November provides ideal conditions for planting before winter sets in. In warmer climates, it’s best to wait until December, when the soil temperature drops.

When To Plant Tulip Bulbs In The UK?
In most parts of the UK, the best time to plant Tulip bulbs is in October and November, when the soil has cooled to around 15°C. This allows the bulbs to develop strong roots before the winter chill.

Can You Plant Tulip Bulbs In Winter?
While autumn is the best time for planting, if you’ve missed the autumn window, don’t worry. Tulip bulbs can still establish roots when planted in December or even January, as long as the soil is cool enough for root development.

Is It Too Late To Plant Tulips In January?
It’s usually not too late to plant Tulip bulbs in January. While October and November are ideal, Tulips can still grow well when planted in January if the soil remains cool enough for root development.

Can I Plant Bulbs In February?
Tulips require a period of cold soil to develop strong roots and vibrant blooms. By February, the ground may already be warming, which could risk the display failing or at least result in fewer blooms.

What Happens If You Plant Tulips Late?
If you plant Tulip bulbs late, they may still grow, but the blooms may be smaller, and the flowering season shorter.

What Soil Do You Use For Tulips?
Tulips thrive in loose, crumbly soil with excellent drainage. Well-drained soil is essential, as bulbs can rot in waterlogged soil. At DutchGrown, Tulips are grown in sandy soils, which guarantees they’re never in a soggy situation.

Should I Soak Tulip Bulbs Before Planting?
Soaking Tulip bulbs before planting is not recommended, as it can cause the bulbs to rot and decay. Tulips are best planted dry, and watering should be avoided unless the soil is exceptionally dry.

How To Grow Tulips From Bulbs?
The best way to plant Tulip bulbs is by following these straightforward steps:

1. Wait until the ground is 15ºC or cooler (September to November).
2. Select a spot in your garden that has well-draining soil and enjoys full sun or partial shade.
3. Plant the Tulip bulbs about 15–18 cm deep and 10–13 cm apart, ensuring the pointed ends are facing upwards.
4. Water the bulbs well once and let nature do the rest until spring.

How To Grow Tulips Indoors?
To grow Tulips indoors, begin by chilling the bulbs in early autumn. Store them in a paper bag in a cool place for 12–16 weeks. After chilling, plant the bulbs in a pot with good drainage, placing them with the pointed side facing upwards and covering them lightly with soil. Keep the pot in a cool, dark spot for 6–8 weeks until the shoots appear. After that, move the pot to a bright, warm area for blooming, which should take 2–3 weeks.

Miniature tulip bulbs, bulblets from the root system.

How Far Apart Should You Plant Tulip Bulbs?
For the best growth and a vibrant display, space your Tulip bulbs around 10 to 13 cm apart. This gives each bulb ample room to develop strong roots and ensures proper air circulation.

How Deep To Plant Tulip Bulbs?
For optimal growth, plant Tulip bulbs at a depth of 15 to 18 cm. In areas prone to harsh frosts, plant them at 18 cm to protect them from freezing and deter pests. Species Tulips can be planted more shallowly—around 10 to 12 cm deep.

Is The Planting Depth Measured To The Top Or Bottom Of The Bulb?
The planting depth is measured from the bottom of the bulb to the surface of the soil. When planting Tulips, ensure the pointed top of the bulb faces upwards.

Can Tulip Bulbs Be Planted Too Deep?
Planting Tulip bulbs too deeply can cause them to rot and delay their growth in spring. The general rule is to plant bulbs at a depth of 2–3 times their vertical diameter. This ensures they are deep enough for strong root development, while avoiding issues like poor drainage and rot.

What Happens If You Don’t Plant Bulbs Deep Enough?
If you plant Tulip bulbs too shallowly, they may be exposed to temperature fluctuations, which can stunt their growth. For the healthiest Tulips, make sure bulbs are planted at the correct depth to promote strong roots and protect them from environmental stress.

What Happens If You Plant A Tulip Bulb Upside Down?
If you accidentally plant your Tulip bulbs upside down, don’t worry. Tulips are quite resilient and will naturally orient themselves correctly. The roots will grow downwards, and the shoots will find their way to the surface, ensuring your Tulips still grow and bloom as expected.

How Many Tulip Bulbs Should You Put In One Hole?
Tulip bulbs don’t like being overcrowded, so it’s best to plant one bulb per planting hole.

How Many Times Will Tulips Bloom In A Year?
Tulip bulbs typically produce one flower per bulb each year. Once the Tulips bloom, their flowering cycle for the season is complete, and they won’t bloom again until the following year.

How Many Tulips Come From One Bulb?
Usually, each Tulip bulb produces one flower. However, some species, such as Multi-Flowering Tulips, may make more than one flower bud per bulb, or over time, they can produce multiple blooms.

How Long Does It Take For A Tulip To Grow From A Bulb?
Tulips generally require 8 to 16 weeks of cold temperatures to trigger root and shoot development. After moving them to a warmer environment resembling spring, the Tulip will sprout, with leaves appearing quickly. After this, Tulips typically take 15 to 30 days to grow and bloom.

How Much Water Do Tulips Need?
Tulips are quite drought-tolerant and thrive on minimal watering. After planting, give them a good drink to establish them in the soil. Once they’re settled, you can largely forget about them until spring. During the growing season, they only need about 17 mm of water per week, especially during late winter to early spring, to help them prepare for blooming.

What Is The Best Fertiliser For Tulips?
Tulips don’t require fertilisation at the time of planting. The ideal fertiliser for Tulips has a nutrient ratio of 9-9-6. A slow-release fertiliser is best, as it ensures that nutrients are gradually delivered to the bulbs.

"Species Tulips"

What Is The Lifespan Of A Tulip?
The lifespan of a Tulip depends on its variety and your local climate. Most contemporary Tulip cultivars are bred to bloom well for 3 to 5 years. Over time, the bulbs naturally weaken and produce fewer flowers. For the best results and the most vibrant blooms each spring, it’s recommended to plant fresh, high-quality Tulip bulbs every year.

How Long Do Tulips Last In The Garden?
How long Tulips last depends on the climate. In cooler spring temperatures, typically between 7°C and 12°C, Tulips can last anywhere from 1 to 2.5 weeks. In warmer weather, however, their blooms tend to last only about a week before fading.

How Long Do Potted Tulips Last?
Potted Tulips can last from several weeks to several months, depending on when they are planted. After planting, Tulips usually take around 8 to 16 weeks to bloom. Once in flower, the blooms typically last between 15 and 30 days.

What Are The Common Pests And Diseases Of Tulip Bulbs?
Tulip bulbs are susceptible to various pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, bulb mites, thrips, and bulb flies, all of which can damage the bulbs or foliage. Fungal diseases, such as Tulip Fire, bulb rot, and viruses, are also common.

What Common Mistakes Cause Tulip Drooping?
Tulips may droop for a variety of reasons, including improper watering, insufficient light, excessive warmth, lack of nutrients, or issues with pests and fungi.

Why Didn’t My Tulips Come Back?
If your Tulips didn’t return, it’s likely because their growing conditions weren’t quite right. They tend to return only when the weather conditions are ideal: a cool climate with minimal rain. Additionally, Tulips planted in pots rarely bloom again. Read more in our guide ‘Do Tulips Return Every Year?’.

Why Do Tulips Sometimes Not Bloom?
Tulips may fail to bloom for several reasons. The most common cause is poor soil quality or incorrect planting depth. Diseases or pests can also damage the bulbs, leading to weak or absent blooms.

What Do You Do With Tulips Once They Have Flowered?
Once Tulips have finished blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally—this helps the bulbs store energy for the next season. Once the leaves turn yellow and dry, carefully dig up the bulbs. Discard any damaged or diseased ones, then let the healthy bulbs dry in a cool, dark, and airy place. Store them in nets or trays over the summer and replant them in the autumn.

When Should I Cut Down My Tulips?
The best time to prune Tulips is after they’ve finished blooming. Wait until the flower has completely faded, and the seed pod has turned brown. Once the leaves have withered and are no longer green, you can safely prune them.

Can I Collect Seeds From Tulips?
You can collect seeds from Tulips once the flower has faded and the seed pod has matured. However, Tulips grown from seeds take much longer to bloom—typically two or more years. Because of this, most gardeners prefer to grow Tulips from bulbs, which provide quicker results.

Do Tulips Come Back Every Year?
Tulips can come back each year, but this depends on the variety and the growing conditions. While Tulips are technically perennials, most modern hybrid varieties are treated as annuals because they tend to lose their vigour after one season. Some types, such as Species Tulips or Darwin Hybrids, are more likely to naturalise and bloom year after year.

Can You Leave Tulip Bulbs In The Ground All Year?
You can leave Tulip bulbs in the ground all year. Most gardeners leave their bulbs where they were originally planted and allow them to rebloom. You might choose to dig them up only if the blooms become fewer over time.

What Happens If You Don’t Dig Up Tulip Bulbs?
If you leave Tulip bulbs in the ground, they will often bloom the following year. However, over time, the flowers may become smaller and less vibrant as the bulbs weaken. For further details, read our guide on ‘How To Save Tulip Bulbs?’.

How To Prepare Tulips For Winter?
After your Tulip bulbs have bloomed, allow the foliage to die back naturally. Then, dig up the bulbs and gently clean them by removing the soil. Let the bulbs dry out in a cool, dry place. Discard any damaged or diseased bulbs, and store the healthy ones in nets or paper bags. Keep them in a cool, dark place over the winter months.

How Long Do Bulbs Last Unplanted?
Flower bulbs should ideally be planted as soon as possible, typically between October and November. Most bulbs will last only 8–12 months out of the ground. If left unplanted for too long, they may begin to rot or lose their ability to sprout.

Do Tulips Multiply On Their Own?
Species Tulips can multiply naturally over time. This process, known as naturalising, sees the Tulips form clumps that grow bigger each year. Read more in our guide ‘Do Tulips Multiply?’.

Which Tulips Are Naturalising?
The best Tulips for naturalising include botanical (miniature) Tulips, Greigii Tulips, Fosteriana Tulips, Darwin Tulips, and Kaufmanniana Tulips. These types tend to multiply and create clumps around the mother bulb over time, providing repeated blooms season after season.

Do Tulip Bulbs Divide?
Tulip bulbs can be divided. They multiply by growing miniature bulbs from their root systems. As the bulbs or bulblets mature and grow larger, they develop alongside the original bulb.

What Does A Tulip Symbolise?
Tulips are widely recognised as symbols of love. Each colour of Tulip carries its own meaning: red Tulips symbolise true love and passion, while purple Tulips are associated with royalty and elegance.

Why Do The Dutch Grow So Many Tulips?
The Netherlands is an ideal location for growing Tulips, thanks to its long spring season, cool nights, and mild temperatures. The country’s soil is naturally well-drained, which is essential for Tulips, as they thrive in soil that is moist but not waterlogged.

How Can You Tell If A Tulip Is Annual Or Perennial?
Botanically, Tulips are perennial plants, originally thriving in the climates of their native Central Asia. However, due to centuries of hybrid breeding, many modern Tulips have lost their ability to perennialise reliably. As a result, most gardeners treat Tulips as annuals, replanting fresh bulbs each year for the best blooms.

Should I Freeze My Tulip Bulbs?
You should not freeze your Tulip bulbs. Freezing temperatures can damage or kill the bulbs.

Will Squirrels Eat Tulips?
Squirrels are often attracted to Tulip bulbs and can be a nuisance in the garden. To protect your bulbs, consider covering the planting area with chicken wire or plastic garden netting. This will prevent squirrels from digging up the bulbs and eating them.

Do Rats Eat Tulip Flowers?
Rats and mice are also attracted to Tulip bulbs and flowers, much like squirrels. To protect your Tulips, consider using barriers such as chicken wire or netting to keep rodents away from the planting area.

Are Tulips Toxic?
Tulips are poisonous to cats and dogs if they ingest any part of the plant, from the Tulip leaf and flower to the stem and bulb. Even a small bite can irritate a dog’s or cat’s mouth.

Where To Buy Tulip Bulbs?
DutchGrown, one of the best bulb suppliers, offers a wide selection of top-sized Tulip bulbs, renowned for their quality and variety. They ship throughout the UK, ensuring that gardeners across the country have access to premium bulbs for their spring displays. Whether you’re looking for classic varieties or unique species, DutchGrown is a reliable source for healthy, high-quality Tulip bulbs.

Updated 10th of November 2025