Tulips warm spring

AS SPRING beckons garden lovers will see the full bloom of tulips as the bulbs enter their flowering stage.
For the best results tulips should be planted in late April or early May.
Wendy Barnes of Tesselaar’s Tulip Farm said that growers planning for next year should store the tulips in a cool place, either under the house or in an inside cupboard until early April.
She said tulips should also be placed in the refrigerator at the beginning of April as the flowers require an artificial winter.
“Place the bulbs in the crisper of the fridge for six to eight weeks in a well ventilated bag such as an open paper bag, egg carton or onion bag,” she said.
The tulips should be planted immediately after removing from the fridge, but gardeners are advised not to plant until the occasional hot spells of weather have finished and the soil has cooled down.
Ms Barnes said tulip growers should make sure the soil is well drained where they are planning to plant the flowers.
She said it is recommended that growers prepare the garden bed one week prior to planting.
For more tips on how to plant tulips call 9737 9811.