How To Order + Plant Your Tulip Bulbs In Hot, Humid Climates
Growing tulips in Zone 9a is what I consider my gardening extravagance. I like to order many different types of tulips, knowing full well that they will be treated as an annual in this hot, humid climate. Most quality tulip bulb sources start pre-selling their tulip bulbs in late August and September for an October delivery. They can go fast, so order yours asap!
Below are some tips and things to consider to help you get growing.
Order Pre-Chilled Bulbs
This is a must. Consider your tulip bulb kind of like a suitcase - it carries all the nutrients that the flower needs once it’s planted. A bulb is in a dormant state when you purchase it, and it will not sprout unless it receives 6-15 weeks of exposure to temperatures at 34 to 35 degrees.
That is not the going to happen here in zone 9a! So you must refrigerate your bulbs or buy pre-chilled ones. For us busy gardeners, sometimes it’s just easier to buy them pre-chilled…that’s what I do!
Find A Quality Tulip Source
Last year, I ordered my pre-chilled bulbs from Menagerie Flower Farms, and they were great! Healthy, plump and ready to roll. Here are some varieties that I have ordered for this year: Mascotte, La Belle Epoque, Renown Unique and Webers Parrot Tulip.
Tulips In The Landscape
Because they are a bit of an extravagance, I use my tulips to highlight areas in the garden verses planting them in the kinds of large, sweeping bands you might see in big/commercial gardens. For a small cottage garden, consider small clusters, staggering bulbs along pathways or in front of a picket fence to add lots of charm.
Don’t Forget Your Containers
Tulip bulbs look amazing in containers! Tuck them in your window boxes to add to the seasonal show of color. Plant them in classic terra cotta pots and cluster a group together to highlight the entryway to your home. They thrive in well-draining soil.