Name: Tulips - Yellow - 10 bulbs p-pack
SKU: 2509209-6
Availability: OutOfStock

Yellow tulips symbolize happiness, cheerfulness, and new beginnings, making them a bright and uplifting choice for any garden. These cold-treated bulbs are ready for autumn planting (March–May) and will bloom in late winter to early spring (August–September).

1. Best Growing Conditions

✅ Climate:

Ideal for cool to mild winter regions (Western Cape, Highveld, and areas with cold nights).
Cold-treated bulbs must be planted immediately for the best results.
Prefer cool temperatures below 20°C for a longer blooming period.

✅ Soil Requirements:

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

✅ Sunlight Needs:

Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily).
In hotter areas, plant in a location that gets morning sun and afternoon shade to protect from excessive heat.

2. Planting Yellow Tulips (Cold Treated)

✅ Best Planting Time:

March–May, when nighttime temperatures are below 15°C.
Plant immediately upon receiving the bulbs.

✅ Preparing the Bulbs:

No additional chilling is required.
Soak bulbs in lukewarm water for 2 hours before planting to stimulate 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, adjusting for rainfall and dryness.
Reduce watering once leaves start yellowing after flowering.

✅ Fertilizing:

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

✅ Mulching:

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

4. Pest & Disease Management

✅ Common Pests:

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

✅ Common Diseases:

Botrytis (Tulip Fire) – Prevent by ensuring good airflow and keeping leaves dry.
Root Rot – Occurs in poorly drained soil; ensure proper drainage.
Fungal Infections – Treat with fungicide if necessary.

5. Flowering & Deadheading

✅ Bloom Time:

August–September, with each bloom lasting 1–2 weeks.

✅ Deadheading:

Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation and encourage the bulb to store energy.
Leave foliage intact until it naturally dies back.

✅ Cut Flowers:

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

6. Post-Flowering & Bulb Storage

✅ After Flowering Care:

Allow leaves to die back naturally (6–8 weeks) to nourish the bulb for the next season.
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 the next planting season.
In cooler areas, bulbs can remain in the ground but may bloom less in the 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 and retain moisture.

✅ Crop Rotation:

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

Conclusion

Yellow tulips bring joy and warmth to South African gardens when planted in autumn in cool, well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight. With proper care, watering, and post-bloom maintenance, you’ll enjoy vibrant golden blooms every spring! 🌷💛