When should tulip bulbs be planted?
Tulip bulbs are planted in autumn — but when exactly, and what happens if you're early or late? Here's the short, practical guide.
The short answer: September to November
Plant your tulip bulbs once the soil temperature drops below about 10°C — in Denmark that typically means mid-September to late November. The bulbs need to root before the frost, but warm soil encourages fungal disease. Rule of thumb: when the nights are cold and the coats have come out, it's planting time. Running late? Better to get bulbs in the ground in December than to save them for spring — tulips need winter cold to flower.
Depth and spacing
Plant bulbs 2-3 times their own height deep — for most tulips 12-15 cm to the base of the bulb, spaced 8-10 cm apart. Deep planting protects against frost and drying out, and helps perennial-minded varieties (like 'Ballerina' and 'Purissima') return year after year. Pointy end up; if in doubt lay the bulb on its side — it will find its own way.
Soil and position
Tulips demand well-drained soil above all — winter wet is their most common killer. Improve heavy clay with grit or plant on slight mounds. Choose full sun for classic garden tulips; species like the woodland tulip tolerate partial shade. Water thoroughly once after planting, then let winter do its thing.
Pre-ordered bulbs
Order in our pre-order window and we deliver exactly when the bulbs should go in the ground — fresh from the grower. Store them dry and cool if you can't plant the same day, and plant as soon as possible after arrival.