Bulb Basics

How to plant tulips in fall for a bounty of spring colors.

PICK A SPOT

Find an area with more than six hours of direct sunlight a day. Some afternoon shade is preferable in hot climates, but it is not necessary.

TIME IT RIGHT

Wait to plant until nighttime temps are consistently 40 or 50 degrees. In the North, that usually means late September or October. Southern gardeners may need to wait until late winter or chill their bulbs.

PREP THE SOIL

Loosen about a foot of soil. Tulips need well-draining soil to avoid rot, so consider adding compost or other amendments to improve the flow of water.