Jeroen & Keriann Koeman are the founders and owners of Eco Tulips in Brightwood, Virginia. Recently, we asked Jeroen--a true Dutchman and professional tulip grower--to lay out his "defense" for why it's okay to plant tulips as late as January 1 here in the Midwest (unlike a certain Ms. Stewart's suggestions!). Here's what Jeroen said:
I will plant most of my bulbs in mid December! Most people in the
My defense:
- Plant tulips when the soil temperature is below 55 degrees. So for the best results don’t plant when it is in October still 70/80 degrees.
- Planting late also prevents squirrels eating your bulbs, when the soil is cold squirrels don’t smell the bulbs as much.
- Tulips need 4-6 weeks in the soil to grow roots.(before they get frozen) You can plant right before heavy frost, when you plant deep 6-8 inches and or apply 2-3 inches of mulch to protect them.
- So you can plant tulips as long the soil is not frozen 24/7. In KS right now it is the best time to plant! Mid December is possible as long as you watch out for heavy frost.
- After January 1st you can’t plant regular bulbs. You need to buy pre-cooled bulbs. After mid January it is difficult for the bulb supplier to keep the bulbs in good condition.
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