How Are Tulip Bulbs Formed?

A complete tulip plant has a stem, some leaves, and a few flowers. The entire plant is anchored into the ground with its bulb.

Formation of Bulbs

Bulbs are formed when a bud on the plant's basal plate starts to grow downward. This forms a hollow tube that has the new bulb at the end. The new bulb is often much deeper, about 2 feet below the mother bulb.

What are Bulbs?

Bulbs are special organs that support vegetative reproduction. They also serve as the plant's main storage for food and water. The bulbs are the exact replicas of the mother plant.

Best Time for Harvesting Bulbs

Tulip bulbs are ready for harvesting from the middle of June to the middle of July. The foliage should have started to shrivel on the plant but is not easily detached.

How are Bulbs Stored?

After digging out the bulbs, shake the soil from the roots and spread them to dry in an airy, cool area. Store them in a dry, dark spot until replanting in fall.

Leaving Bulbs in the Ground

Since bulbs can grow quite deep, it is not always possible to dig them all out. However bulbs place themselves in safe conditions for the next season's growth and propagate themselves in the next season.

References

• "Tulips;" Z. P. Botschantzeva, H. Q. Verekamp; 1982
• "Tulips;" Richard Wilford; 2006
• "Gardening with Tulips;" Michael King; 2005