Tulips are generally pretty easy to grow, but like any plant, they have their own problems that you should know about. Here are five potential pitfalls to keep in mind when growing tulips.
1. Over-watering. This is the number one cause of accidental houseplant death, but did you know it will kill your tulips, too? Tulips need a dry period after their leaves have wilted and yellowed. During this dormant period they are busy preparing to take root in the fall. Too much water when they expect dry conditions will cause them to rot.
2. Planting too late. Tulips need a few weeks to put out some roots to ensure survival during the winter, but not enough time that they start to grow. In general, the soil temperature should be about 50 degrees Fahrenheit before you plant. If in doubt, check with your local flower shop or cooperative extension office.
3. Removing the leaves too soon. Those fading leaves might be an eyesore to you, but to the tulip they mean continued survival. All plants combine sunlight with carbon dioxide to make food, and without leaves, this process cannot take place. Tulips are storing that energy in the bulb for next season's flower, and if you take away the leaves, you take away any chance that the flower will bloom again.
4. Buying substandard bulbs. Avoid buying tulips bulbs pre-packaged in large mixed bags. Buy your bulbs singularly, so that you can inspect them all for soft spots, cuts or scratches, and mold. Bulbs should feel heavy for their size, not dried out. Also, larger bulbs are generally healthier. Don't settle for substandard bulbs just to save a few pennies, or you will be disappointed.
5. Inviting rodents to your yard. Squirrels and deer are famous for their love of tulips. Squirrels love the bulbs, and deer love the flowers, and there's not a whole lot you can do to stop either one of them, but that doesn't mean you have to put out the welcome mat. Deer repellant is readily available at most home and garden stores, but remember, it needs to be re-applied every few days or after a rain. To keep the squirrels from eating your bulbs, try covering your beds with one inch chicken wire.
Tulip care isn't complicated, and if you keep these five things in mind when buying, planting, and nurturing your tulips, you'll be sure to have a beautiful tulip garden.
For more information about growing tulips, visit Tulip Care Tips.
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