When to plant Tulips

Now is a great time to buy tulip bulbs in Ireland, but the best practice is to wait until late November to plant them for optimal health and stunning blooms next spring. Storing bulbs correctly and following proper planting techniques will help avoid disease and ensure a vibrant display.​

Why Wait to Plant Tulips?
Tulip bulbs are naturally adapted to survive dry conditions and are actually less likely to develop fungal problems (like tulip fire) if planted later—late November or even early December is ideal for Ireland. Early planting, especially into damp autumn soil, can increase the risk of disease.​

How to Store Tulip Bulbs Before Planting
Keep bulbs in a dry, airy place (like a garage or shed), at temperatures between 4–20°C, until you’re ready to plant.​

Avoid plastic bags and instead use paper bags or mesh sacks for storage.
Check bulbs occasionally and discard any that show signs of softness or mold.​

How to Plant Tulips in Ireland
Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil.​

Plant each bulb at a depth about three times its height (usually 10–12 cm) and space them 10–15 cm apart, with the pointed end facing up.​Avoid planting in heavy clay or waterlogged ground.
Water well after planting, but do not waterlog the soil.
In borders, containers, or naturalized areas, group bulbs in clusters for best visual effect.​

Recommended Tulip Varieties
For Irish gardens, consider these standout varieties:

Darwin Hybrids: Tall, sturdy, and long-lasting—ideal for bold displays. Examples: ‘Apeldoorn’ or ‘Apricot Beauty’.​
Triumph Tulips: Mid-height, reliable, and vibrant. Try ‘Barcelona’ or ‘Abu Hassan’.​
Fringed or Parrot Tulips: Dramatic shapes for focal points. Consider ‘Black Parrot’, ‘Flaming Parrot’, or ‘Fancy Frills’.​
Classic Favourites: ‘Queen of Night’ (near-black), ‘Angelique’ (soft pink, double blooms), or the elegant ‘White Triumphator’.​
Dwarf Tulips: Perfect for pots, rockeries, or front-of-border pops of colour.​

Mixing early, mid, and late-season varieties can give you a continuous tulip display from April through May.​

Final Tips
Buy bulbs early for the best selection, but plant late for healthiest results.​

Mix different types for succession flowering.
Avoid watering after planting unless soil is extremely dry.

Follow these steps and enjoy a long-lasting, colourful tulip show in your garden next spring

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