These tulips are popular for their contrasting colored flowers.
When the petals open on sunny days, it almost takes the shape of stars. But when the petals close, they take up extraordinary shades.
Plant large bulbs 5–6″ apart and smaller bulbs 2–3″ apart.
Bulb size: 12 cm / species 5-10 cm
Light/Watering: Tulips grow best in full sun in the North and will tolerate very light shade in hotter regions.
Fertilizer/Soil and pH: Tulip bulbs need well-drained soil. Sandy soil rich in organic matter is ideal with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Keep tulip bulbs cool (below 65°) until ready to plant.
Plant at the depth recommended on the plant label (or a little deeper); you should plant large bulbs 8–10″ deep, smaller bulbs and Tulips 5–6″ deep.
Fertilize in the fall and early spring with any fertilizer
Most early and mid-season tulip varieties are great for juicing. Rooting time is from fourteen to sixteen weeks.
Pests/Diseases: Aphids can be a problem, but are easily washed away with a hose. If you notice thin stems and white or yellowish spots or streaks on the foliage, suspect a virus, dig up and destroy the bulbs.
Pruning: Energy goes directly to Tulip bulbs by removing dead flowers and developing seeds.
End of Season Care: Wait until the Tulip leaves turn completely yellow before cutting again.
Early Spring: Fertilize tubers now with the proper formula.
Mid-spring: Enjoy the show and cut flowers for beautiful bouquets. Watch for bed bugs and wash them if present.
Summer: Tulip plants die to remove their developing seed capsules. Do not water the tulip bed, as most varieties of tulips prefer to stay dry in the summer and should be weeded for the flower bed. Do not remove foliage until it has turned completely yellow.
