Origins. Tulips originated in Turkey getting their name from the Turkish word "tulbend" which means turban. Tulips were thought to look like the turbans. (Hats that were worn in Turkey at that time.) I have always mistakenly associated the origin of Tulips with Holland. Tulips were introduced to Holland from Persia.
Tulips are classified with perennials but often need to be treated as annuals. Dig up your tulip bulbs once the foliage has died & store them in a cool dry area for replanting in the fall. There are a wide variety of tulips, some are shown in the following figures. Figure 1. Angelique| Figure 2. Beauty of Apeldoorn| Figure 3. Black Parrot| Figure 4. Candela| Figure 5. Plaisir|
Order your bulbs early enough that they can spend anywhere from 8 to 10 weeks basking in the chill of your frig. Store them in a mesh bag so that they get good air circulation. If you are a fruit lover you may want to strongly consider getting a spare refrigerator – one of the minis so readily available. Fruit gives off ethylene gas – and ethylene gas will kill the flower inside your bulbs.
Planting. Choose your planting spot carefully. No open, sunny areas – and no Southern exposures. Find the coolest spots on your property – preferably those that are either in partial shade with only morning sun. Otherwise your poor plants will pop out and fry before you have a chance to admire them.
Tulips will thrive in almost any type of soil where there is reasonable drainage. During the growing season they like plenty of moisture but the roots must not stand in water. Be careful not to feed tulips during the growing season as this will produce 'leggy' plants. Plant from October until late December, 4 inches deep and approximately 5 to 6 inches apart.
Plant at the right...