Tulip Bulbs — Plant in Autumn for Spring Colour
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Tulip bulbs planted this autumn give bold colour in April and May, from Triumph, double and Darwin hybrid tulips to smaller species tulips. They do well in Irish gardens and containers when planted deep in free-draining soil. Free tracked delivery across Ireland and 24 more EU countries.
When and how to plant tulip bulbs in Ireland
Plant tulips in October–November; cooler soil helps them avoid tulip fire. Set bulbs 15–20 cm deep, pointed end up, 10–15 cm apart in full sun. Wet, waterlogged ground rots bulbs more than cold does.
| Bulb | When to plant | Depth | Spacing | Light | Flowers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Triumph tulip Tulipa | October–November | 15–20 cm | 10–15 cm | Full sun | April–May |
| Darwin hybrid mix Tulipa | October–November | 15–20 cm | 10–15 cm | Full sun | April–May |
| Double tulip Tulipa | October–November | 15–20 cm | 10–15 cm | Full sun | April–May |
| Species tulip Tulipa 'Little Beauty' | October–November | 15–20 cm | 10–15 cm | Full sun | April–May |
| Wild woodland tulip Tulipa sylvestris | October–November | 15–20 cm | 10–15 cm | Full sun | April–May |
Tulips in pots and borders
Many hybrid tulips flower best in their first year, so treat them as annuals or lift them after the foliage has died back. Species tulips such as 'Persian Pearl' and Tulipa sylvestris, and Darwin hybrids, return more reliably. Leave the foliage for about six weeks after flowering if you want the bulbs to build up for next year.
In pots, try lasagne layering with tulips deepest and smaller early bulbs above. Cover newly planted bulbs with chicken wire if squirrels or mice dig them up. Tulip bulbs are toxic to cats and dogs if eaten, so store and plant them out of reach.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to plant tulip bulbs in Ireland?
October–November. Cooler soil at that time of year helps tulips avoid tulip fire.
How deep should tulip bulbs be planted?
Plant tulip bulbs 15–20 cm deep and 10–15 cm apart, pointed end up, in full sun and free-draining soil.
Which tulips come back every year?
Species tulips and Darwin hybrids return most reliably. Many other hybrids are best treated as annuals or lifted after flowering.
Pair tulips with muscari bulbs or daffodil bulbs, or see mixed bulb collections.
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