Tulip Bulb Planting Guide

Planting Location

• Tulips require full sun and excellent drainage. If your preferred location doesn't drain well, install a raised bed or plant in containers.

Soil Preparation

• Ensure that drainage is excellent before planting by cultivating the soil well. Loosen soils with high clay content by adding compost into the top 12 to 18 inches.

Fertilizing

• Tulips require phosphorus, which promotes root development. At the bottom of the planting hole, sprinkle bonemeal, superphosphate or a bulb fertilizer. According to Purdue University, a high phosphate fertilizer such as a 6-12-6 is a good choice. Follow package directions carefully.

  Apply a 10-10-10 bulb fertilizer when shoots appear in the spring. Do not fertilize once flowering begins, because this can encourage root rot development.

Planting and Watering

• Plant tulips with the pointy end up three to four times as deep as the width of the bulb, measured at the base. Space 2 to 4 inches apart. Cover the bulbs with soil and a 2- to 3- inch layer of mulch. Water well.