Replanting tulips is a common practice for gardeners seeking to refresh their spring display. Unlike some perennial flowers, tulips often benefit from periodic movement to ensure continued robust blooming. The process involves carefully lifting the bulbs, storing them during summer dormancy, and replanting them in a new location for the next season.
Identifying Signs That Tulips Need Moving
Gardeners typically move tulips when the plants show signs of diminished performance. The primary indicator is a decrease in flower size or a significant reduction in blooms. This occurs because the original “mother” bulb multiplies, creating smaller bulblets that compete for resources. Overcrowding also pushes the bulbs closer to the soil surface, making them vulnerable to damage. Moving the bulbs also refreshes the planting site, which may have depleted nutrients or developed poor drainage.
Optimal Timing for Transplanting Dormant Bulbs
The best time to transplant tulips is when the bulbs enter their natural dormant state, typically from late spring to early summer. After blooming, the foliage must remain intact until it turns completely yellow or brown. This dying foliage replenishes the energy reserves the bulb needs to form next year’s flower bud. Digging up bulbs prematurely prevents this storage, often resulting in a “blind” bulb that fails to bloom. Once the foliage has died back, the bulbs can be gently lifted; replanting should occur in the fall, approximately six to eight weeks before the first hard frost.
Curing and Storing Bulbs Between Seasons
After lifting, bulbs need a period of “curing” before storage to prevent rot and mold. Gently brush away soil, but avoid washing the bulbs, as moisture encourages fungal development. Lay the bulbs in a single layer on a screen in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area for several days to allow the outer layers to dry and harden. Once cured, store the bulbs in a location maintaining a consistent temperature (60°F to 68°F) and low humidity. Use a mesh bag, paper bag, or a tray with peat moss to allow continuous air circulation during the summer months.
Successful Replanting Depth and Spacing
Replanting the dormant bulbs in the fall allows them time to establish roots before the ground freezes. A general guideline for planting depth is three times the bulb’s height, typically six to eight inches. This deep planting protects the bulbs from temperature extremes and discourages the formation of smaller offsets. Proper spacing is necessary, so place the bulbs four to six inches apart with the pointed end facing upward. The new location must have fertile, well-draining soil, and after covering the bulbs, water the area thoroughly to settle the soil and initiate root growth.