Name: Tulips - White - 10 bulbs p-pack
SKU: 2509209-1
Availability: InStock

White tulips are elegant and classic spring flowers that require a cold period to bloom successfully in South Africa’s warmer climate. Since these tulips have been cold-treated, they are ready for planting in autumn (March–May) and will flower in late winter to early spring (August–September).

1. Best Growing Conditions

✅ Climate:

Suitable for cool to mild winter regions (Western Cape, Highveld, and inland areas with cold nights).
Prefers temperatures below 20°C during growth; excessive heat can shorten bloom time.
Best results when planted immediately after receiving cold-treated bulbs.

✅ 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 sand and compost.

✅ Sunlight Needs:

Requires full sun to partial shade (minimum 6 hours of sunlight daily).
In hotter areas, plant where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade to prevent heat stress.

2. Planting White Tulips (Cold Treated)

✅ Best Planting Time:

March–May (as soon as temperatures drop below 15°C at night).
Cold-treated bulbs do not need further chilling—plant immediately upon arrival.

✅ Preparing the Bulbs:

No extra chilling required.
Soak bulbs in lukewarm water for 2 hours before planting to boost root growth.

✅ Planting Depth & Spacing:

Plant bulbs 10–15 cm deep in the soil.
Space bulbs 10 cm apart for 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 1–2 times per week, increasing in dry conditions.
Stop watering when leaves start yellowing after flowering.

✅ Fertilizing:

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

✅ Mulching:

Apply a light layer of mulch (straw, bark, or compost) to keep soil cool and retain moisture.

4. Pest & Disease Management

✅ Common Pests:

Aphids & Thrips – Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Snails & Slugs – Use organic slug pellets or crushed eggshells around plants.
Moles & Rodents – Protect bulbs with chicken wire in the soil.

✅ Common Diseases:

Botrytis (Tulip Fire) – Ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.
Root Rot – Occurs in poorly drained soil; always plant in well-draining areas.
Fungal Infections – Treat with a fungicide if needed.

5. Flowering & Deadheading

✅ Bloom Time:

August–September, lasting 1–2 weeks per flower, depending on weather.

✅ Deadheading:

Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation and encourage energy storage in the bulb.
Keep leaves intact after blooming, as they store nutrients for the next season.

✅ Cut Flowers:

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

6. Post-Flowering & Bulb Storage

✅ After Flowering Care:

Allow leaves to die back naturally (6–8 weeks).
Stop watering once foliage turns yellow and withers.

✅ Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

In warmer areas (KwaZulu-Natal, Lowveld, and coastal regions), lift bulbs after foliage dies back.
Clean off excess soil and store in a cool, dry place (10–15°C) in a paper bag until next season.
In cooler areas, bulbs can stay in the ground, but they may not bloom as well in the second year.

7. Companion Planting & Crop Rotation

✅ Good Companion Plants:

Daffodils, hyacinths, anemones, and freesias create a stunning spring display.
Low-growing ground covers (like pansies and alyssum) help shade the soil and retain moisture.

✅ Crop Rotation:

Avoid planting tulips in the same spot for more than two consecutive years to prevent disease buildup.

Conclusion

White tulips bring elegance and beauty to South African gardens when planted in autumn in cool, well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. By following the correct planting and aftercare methods, you can enjoy a spectacular spring display of crisp, white blooms every year! 🌷✨