Elegant spring blooms, available in an array of colours and flower shapes. When planted en masse they will catch the attention of anyone's eye. Their flowers are varied and showy, brightly coloured, generally red, pink, yellow, or white.
Planting Calendar
Ideally, tulip bulbs should be planted in late Autumn for Spring flowering.
Prepare
Position
Tulips do well both in the ground as well as in pots. Pick a nice sunny spot to plant your bulbs.
Soil
When planted into the ground, tulips like a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. If planting into a pot, plant in a free-draining mix without water storage crystals such as Tui Bulb Mix or Kings Potting Mix.
Plant
In the ground. Leave between 10-15cm between each bulb, and plant to a depth of 6-8cm. Water them in thoroughly after planting with Aquaticus Garden Booster added to the water. In Containers: Situate your container or pot in full sun. Use Tui Bulb Mix or Kings Potting Mix. In larger pots leave between 10-15cm between each bulb and plant to a depth of 6-8cm deep. Water them in thoroughly after planting with Aquaticus Garden Booster added to the water.
Care
Beginner Tip
Tulip bulbs are best lifted in November-December and should be put in a fridge 6 weeks before you are ready to plant them again in April-May.
Expert Tip
If you live in a warmer area of the country, you should chill your tulips for six weeks prior to planting so that the bud can complete its development and to ensure the plants have nice, long stems. Put the bulbs in the fridge in a paper bag but keep them away from your fruit and veggies that produce the ripening gas ethylene, such as apples and bananas, which can prevent flower and root formation.
Tip
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Top Varieties
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant tulip bulbs?
The best time to plant tulip bulbs is during the cooler months of April and May. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before the warmer weather arrives.
How should I plant tulip bulbs?
In the ground leave between 10-15cm between each bulb, and plant to a depth of 6-8cm. Water them in thoroughly after planting with Aquaticus Garden Booster added to the water.
How often should I water my tulips?
Once established, tulips do not require too much attention. Water regularly just enough to keep soil moist, but not water logged. Never allow the pot to sit in any water.
How can I protect my tulips from pests and diseases?
Slugs and snails can be a problem for tulips. Use slug pellets or traps to protect your plants. Good air circulation and well-drained soil help prevent fungal diseases.
When do tulips bloom in Auckland?
Tulips typically bloom in Auckland from late September to early November, depending on the variety and weather conditions.
