Name: Tulips - Two Tone Red/Yellow - 10 bulbs p-pack
SKU: 2509209-2
Availability: InStock

Two-tone red/yellow tulips bring vibrant color and striking contrast to South African gardens. Since these tulips 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 suited for cool to mild winter regions (Western Cape, Highveld, and inland areas with cold nights).
Requires cold dormancy before flowering—hence, pre-chilled bulbs should be planted immediately.
Temperatures above 20°C during growth 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 amended with sand and compost.

✅ Sunlight Needs:

Prefers full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily).
In hotter regions, plant in morning sun with afternoon shade to prevent overheating.

2. Planting Two-Tone Tulips (Cold Treated)

✅ Best Planting Time:

March–May, when nighttime temperatures drop below 15°C.
Plant immediately upon receiving the pre-chilled bulbs.

✅ Preparing the Bulbs:

No extra chilling needed.
Soak in lukewarm water for 2 hours before planting to boost root development.

✅ Planting Depth & Spacing:

Depth: 10–15 cm deep.
Spacing: 10 cm apart to ensure good airflow and healthy growth.
Water deeply after planting to settle the soil.

3. Watering & Care

✅ Watering Schedule:

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

✅ Fertilizing:

At Planting: Use low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 3:1:5 or bone meal) for strong root development.
During Growth: Apply a liquid fertilizer every two weeks for healthy blooms.
After Flowering: Stop fertilizing when the foliage starts dying back.

✅ Mulching:

Apply a light mulch layer (bark, compost, or straw) to retain soil moisture and regulate 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) – Improve airflow and avoid wetting leaves.
Root Rot – Occurs in poorly drained soil; plant in well-draining locations.
Fungal Infections – Apply a fungicide if necessary.

5. Flowering & Deadheading

✅ Bloom Time:

August–September, lasting 1–2 weeks per flower (longer in cooler conditions).

✅ Deadheading:

Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation and allow the bulb to store energy for 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 wither naturally (6–8 weeks) before cutting them back.
Stop watering once 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 in autumn.
In cooler regions, bulbs can remain in the ground, but flowering may be less vigorous in the second year.

7. Companion Planting & Crop Rotation

✅ Good Companion Plants:

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

✅ Crop Rotation:

Rotate planting locations every 2 years to prevent soil diseases.

Conclusion

Two-tone red/yellow tulips add a bold splash of color to South African gardens when planted in autumn in cool, well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight. Proper watering, fertilizing, and post-bloom care will ensure a stunning spring display year after year! 🌷🔥💛