Tulips - Mixed - 10 bulbs p-pack

Tulips are one of the most iconic and beloved spring flowers, but they require cold treatment to bloom successfully in South Africa's warmer climate. Cold-treated tulips have been pre-chilled to simulate a cold winter, making them suitable for planting in autumn (March—May) for a spring bloom (August—September).

1. Best Growing Conditions

Climate:

• Ideal for cool to mild winters (like the Western Cape, Highveld, and cooler inland regions).

• Tulips require a cold dormancy period, so cold-treated bulbs are necessary for successful flowering.

• If temperatures exceed 20°C during growth, flowers may develop poorly.

Soil Requirements:

• Well-drained, fertile loamy or sandy soil with added compost.

• pH level: 6.0—7.0 (neutral to slightly acidic).

• Avoid heavy clay soils unless amended with sand and compost for better drainage.

Sunlight Needs:

• Prefer full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day).

• In hot regions, plant in morning sun with afternoon shade to prevent heat stress.

2. Planting Tulips (Cold Treated)

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (March—May) after temperatures drop below 15°C at night.

• Plant immediately after receiving cold-treated bulbs to maintain their dormancy cycle.

Preparing the Bulbs:

• No need for further chilling as they have been pre-treated.

• Soak bulbs in lukewarm water for 2 hours before planting to encourage root growth.

Planting Depth & Spacing:

• Depth: 10—15 cm deep (deeper in warmer areas for better cooling).

• Spacing: 10 cm apart to allow for airflow and prevent fungal diseases.

Watering at Planting:

• Water well after planting to settle the soil and start root development.

3. Watering & Care

Watering Schedule:

• Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

• Water 1—2 times per week (increase in dry conditions).

• Reduce watering when leaves start yellowing after flowering.

Fertilizing:

• At Planting: Use a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 3:1:5 or bone meal) to encourage root and flower development.

• During Growth: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks.

• After Flowering: Stop fertilizing once the foliage starts dying back.

Mulching:

• Apply a light layer of mulch (bark, straw, or compost) to keep soil cool and retain moisture.

4. Pest & Disease Management

Common Pests:

• Aphids & Thrips — Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Snails & Slugs — Use organic slug pellets or crushed eggshells.

• Moles & Rodents — Protect bulbs with chicken wire in the soil.

Common Diseases:

• Botrytis (Tulip Fire) — Improve airflow and avoid overhead watering.

• Root Rot — Ensure good drainage and do not overwater.

• Fungal Infections — Treat with a fungicide if necessary.

5. Flowering & Deadheading

Bloom Time:

• Flowers appear in late winter to early spring (August—September).

• Each bloom lasts 1—2 weeks, depending on temperature conditions.

Deadheading:

• Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation, which takes energy away from the bulb.

• Keep green foliage intact after flowering so the plant can store energy for next season.

Cut Flowers:

• Cut in the morning for the longest vase life.

• Place stems in cool, clean water immediately.

6. Post-Flowering & Bulb Storage

What to Do After Flowering:

• Allow the leaves to die back naturally (6—8 weeks) before removing them.

• Stop watering once the foliage turns yellow and withers.

Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

• In warmer areas (KwaZulu-Natal, Lowveld, coastal regions), lift bulbs after the leaves die back.

• Clean off excess soil and store in a cool, dry place (10—15°C) in a paper bag until autumn.

• In cooler areas, bulbs can remain in the ground but may not bloom as well in the second season.

7. Companion Planting & Crop Rotation

Good Companion Plants:

• Daffodils, hyacinths, freesias, and anemones complement tulips in spring gardens.

• Low-growing ground covers like pansies and alyssu...