Name: Tulips - Red - 10 bulbs p-pack
SKU: 2509209-4
Availability: OutOfStock

Red tulips symbolize love, passion, and energy, making them a stunning addition to any garden. Since these bulbs have been cold-treated, they are ready for autumn planting (March–May) and will bloom in late winter to early spring (August–September).

1. Best Growing Conditions

✅ Climate:

Best for cool to mild winter regions (Western Cape, Highveld, and areas with cold nights).
Cold-treated bulbs must be planted immediately for optimal growth.
Temperatures above 20°C can shorten the bloom period.

✅ Soil Requirements:

Well-draining, fertile soil (loamy or sandy with added compost).
pH level: 6.0–7.0 (neutral to slightly acidic).
Avoid heavy clay soils unless improved with compost and sand.

✅ Sunlight Needs:

Requires full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily).
In hotter areas, choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade to prevent overheating.

2. Planting Red Tulips (Cold Treated)

✅ Best Planting Time:

March–May, when night temperatures drop below 15°C.
Plant immediately upon receiving the bulbs—no extra chilling needed.

✅ Preparing the Bulbs:

Soak in lukewarm water for 2 hours before planting to boost root growth.

✅ Planting Depth & Spacing:

Depth: 10–15 cm deep.
Spacing: 10 cm apart for good airflow and even growth.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.

3. Watering & Care

✅ Watering Schedule:

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Water once or twice a week, increasing during dry spells.
Reduce watering when leaves begin to yellow after flowering.

✅ Fertilizing:

At Planting: Apply low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 3:1:5 or bone meal) to promote root development.
During Growth: Use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks for strong stems and bright blooms.
After Flowering: Stop fertilizing once leaves start dying back.

✅ Mulching:

Apply a thin mulch layer (bark, compost, or straw) to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

4. Pest & Disease Management

✅ Common Pests:

Aphids & Thrips – Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Snails & Slugs – Use crushed eggshells or organic snail bait.
Moles & Rodents – Protect bulbs with chicken wire beneath the soil.

✅ Common Diseases:

Botrytis (Tulip Fire) – Prevent by ensuring good airflow and keeping leaves dry.
Root Rot – Avoid overwatering and plant in well-draining soil.
Fungal Infections – Treat with fungicide if needed.

5. Flowering & Deadheading

✅ Bloom Time:

August–September, lasting 1–2 weeks per flower.

✅ Deadheading:

Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation and allow bulbs to store energy for the next season.
Keep leaves intact until they die back naturally.

✅ Cut Flowers:

Cut early in the morning for longer vase life.
Place in clean, cool water immediately.

6. Post-Flowering & Bulb Storage

✅ After Flowering Care:

Allow leaves to die back naturally (6–8 weeks) before cutting them.
Stop watering once the foliage turns yellow and dries out.

✅ Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

In warmer regions (KwaZulu-Natal, Lowveld, coastal areas), lift bulbs after foliage dies.
Store in a cool, dry place (10–15°C) in a paper bag until replanting next season.
In cooler regions, bulbs can stay in the ground but may flower less vigorously in following years.

7. Companion Planting & Crop Rotation

✅ Good Companion Plants:

Daffodils, hyacinths, anemones, and freesias for a colorful spring display.
Low-growing ground covers like alyssum and violas to shade the soil.

✅ Crop Rotation:

Avoid planting tulips in the same location for more than 2 years to prevent disease buildup.

Conclusion

Red tulips add bold, striking color to South African gardens when planted in autumn in cool, well-draining soil with ample sunlight. Proper watering, fertilizing, and post-bloom care will ensure a stunning spring display year after year! 🌷🔴