How Long Do I Refrigerate Tulip Bulbs Before Planting?

Tulips do best with specific planting times.

Tulips are some of the first flowers in spring, but different varieties will continue to bloom through summer. Most tulip bulbs are purchased and planted directly, though storing in a refrigerator may be necessary in certain circumstances.

Planting Times

Tulips do best with a fall planting, and like to get into the soil a month before the first heavy frost. According to nursery American Meadows, the best time for tulip planting is about six weeks before the ground freezes, when nighttime temperatures drop to 40 to 50 degrees F.

Storing Bulbs

Many gardeners purchase tulip bulbs in the fall for immediate planting. Gardeners who receive their tulip bulbs in spring or summer may choose to store the bulbs in peat moss or loose soil in a box. Refrigerators are ideal places for storage, as they keep the bulbs cool and dry.

Ethylene

Do not store tulip or other spring-flowering bulbs in the refrigerator with apples or pears. According to North Carolina State University Extension, the fruits produce ethylene gas, which causes the bulbs to flower poorly when planted.

Forcing Bulbs

Tulips don't require refrigeration before planting outdoors, but if purchased to bloom indoors in pots in the winter, a cold period is required. University of Minnesota Extension recommends potting the bulbs and storing the pot (covered with a plastic bags with a few airholes) in the refrigerator for a minimum of 12 weeks.

References

• Backyard Gardener: Garden Guide on Tulips
• American Meadows: How to Plant Flower Bulbs
• North Carolina State University Extension: Storage of Bulbs Prior to Planting
• University of Minnesota Extension: Forcing Bulbs