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Tulips

Growing Spectacular Spring Bulbs: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Donna July 11, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Growing Spectacular Spring Bulbs: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Spring bulbs are a gardener’s delight, bringing vibrant colors and joy to your garden after the long winter months. To ensure a breathtaking display next spring, it’s essential to know how to properly care for and plant these bulbs.

Choosing and Planting Bulbs

Hand-pick bulbs: Visit a nursery or garden center to select healthy bulbs that are free from soft spots or damage.
Plant late: Tulips prefer to be planted late, around November, to reduce the risk of disease.
Create layered pots: Maximize space by planting three layers of bulbs in the same container. Start with tulips at the bottom, followed by daffodils, and top with crocus.
Avoid feeding now: Freshly planted bulbs don’t need extra food. Water them moderately to keep the soil moist.

Solutions for Specific Areas

Shady grass: Fritillaria meleagris thrives in damp, shady spots in grass.
Naturalizing in grass: Throw handfuls of bulbs across the lawn and plant them where they land for a natural look. Stick to one type of bulb for a cohesive display.

Protecting Bulbs from Pests

Squirrels: Sprinkle chili powder on the soil or cover bulbs with prickly prunings to deter squirrels from digging them up.
Bees: Crocus bulbs planted in pots provide early nectar and pollen for bees emerging from hibernation. Move pots into full sun as the bulbs start growing.

Additional Tips

Use a deep pot: Choose a pot at least 30cm wide and deep for layered plantings.
Layer with compost: Plant each bulb layer on top of a layer of compost and cover with twice the height of the bulb in compost.
Avoid overcrowding: Plant bulbs close but not touching to allow for growth and flowering.
Feed after flowering: After flowering, feed bulbs with a high-potash liquid food to promote strong blooms the following spring.

Historical and Fun Facts

Daffodils and healing: The Romans believed the sap of daffodils could heal wounds, but it actually contains irritant crystals.
Tulipmania: In the 17th century, a single tulip bulb could be worth the price of a grand house in Amsterdam!

Conclusion

Growing spring bulbs is a rewarding experience that brings joy and beauty to your garden. By following these tips, you can ensure a stunning display of colorful blooms that will brighten your spring days. Remember to hand-pick bulbs, plant them strategically, and protect them from pests to achieve the best results.

Gardening Basics

Planting: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Experts Alike

by Donna June 27, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Planting: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Planting is a crucial aspect of gardening that can determine the success or failure of your plants. Whether you’re planting in the ground, in containers, or repotting houseplants, there are essential techniques to follow to ensure healthy growth and prevent problems.

Planting in the Ground

When planting in the ground, it’s important to choose the right location and prepare the soil well. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the rootball of the plant and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and spread the roots out evenly. Backfill with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly after planting.

Planting in Containers

When planting in containers, select a pot with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix. Fill the pot about halfway with potting mix, then carefully remove the plant from its original container. Loosen any circling roots and place the plant in the pot, filling in around the roots with more potting mix. Water thoroughly after planting.

Repotting Houseplants

Repotting houseplants is necessary as they grow and their roots become pot-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and use a fresh potting mix. Carefully remove the plant from its old pot and gently loosen any circling roots. Place the plant in the new pot and fill in around the roots with potting mix. Water thoroughly after repotting.

Planting Tips for Specific Plants

Hardy Fuchsia in Hanging Baskets:

Choose a hanging basket with good drainage holes.
Use a potting mix specifically designed for hanging baskets.
Plant the fuchsia plant in the center of the basket and backfill with potting mix.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist.

Cacti:

Use a cactus potting mix that is well-draining.
Choose a pot with drainage holes and avoid overwatering.
Wear gloves when handling cacti to prevent spines from pricking you.

Tulips:

Plant tulip bulbs in the fall, about 6 inches deep and 4 inches apart.
Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Water the bulbs after planting and mulch around them to insulate them over the winter.

Conclusion

Planting is a skill that gardeners of all levels can master with a little knowledge and practice. By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure that your plants thrive and bring beauty and enjoyment to your garden.

Additional Resources

[10 Tips for Planting Success](link to article on planting tips)
[Companion Planting Combinations](link to article on companion planting)
[April Planting Guide with Monty](link to article on planting in April)

Gardening

Spring Flowers to Brighten Your April: Expert Picks from Gardeners’ World

by Gregory April 8, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Spring Flowers to Brighten Your April

Chosen by the Gardeners’ World Team

As April arrives, we eagerly anticipate the vibrant colors and delicate blooms of spring. From flowering cherries to tulips, there’s a wealth of plants that will transform your garden into a tapestry of beauty.

Flowering Cherries

If you’re looking for a stunning focal point, consider the ‘Shirotae’ cherry tree. Its abundant white flowers and graceful canopy create a breathtaking display.

Evergreen Beauties

For a touch of year-round greenery, opt for Libertia formosa. Its sword-shaped leaves and elegant white blooms add a touch of sophistication to shady spots.

Unique and Eye-Catching

Snake’s head fritillary is a captivating plant with burgundy flowers that resemble a checkerboard. It thrives in both grass and pots, adding a touch of whimsy to your garden.

Ornamental Delights

The fluffy pink blooms of ornamental cherries are a sight to behold. They provide an important source of early nectar for bees and create a stunning contrast against dark branches.

Shade-Loving Gems

Pachyphragma macrophyllum is a hardy plant that illuminates shady areas with clusters of white flowers in late winter and spring. Its rounded leaves take on purple tints as the weather cools.

Fragrant and Versatile

Lippia dulcis not only boasts attractive bronze-edged leaves but also has a minty scent and edible leaves. It’s perfect for groundcover or containers.

Aromatic Enchantment

Pelargonium tomentosum, also known as the peppermint geranium, has large, green leaves with a powerful minty scent. Its cascading habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets.

Tulips Galore

Tulip ‘Brown Sugar’ is a standout with its sumptuous brown-bronze petals that shimmer in the sunlight. Its elegant form and delightful fragrance make it a must-have for tulip enthusiasts.

Heartfelt Blooms

Lamprocapnos spectabilis, commonly known as bleeding heart, features delicate pink, heart-shaped blooms. Its cottage-style charm adds a touch of romance to any garden.

Humble Yet Stunning

Anthriscus sylvestris, or cow parsley, transforms landscapes into a frothy white sea. Varieties like ‘Ravenswing’ are popular with garden designers for their dramatic foliage.

Euphorbia’s Golden Glow

Euphorbia epithymoides is a compact plant that bursts into a vibrant lime-yellow flower hummock in April. Its foliage turns bronze in autumn, providing year-round interest.

Flower Gardening

Grow Tulips in Water: A Beginner’s Guide to Early Indoor Blooms

by Gregory January 22, 2023

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Grow Tulips in Water: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Do you love the vibrant colors and delicate fragrance of tulips? But don’t want to wait until spring to enjoy them? Growing tulips in water is a fun and easy way to bring the beauty of spring indoors early. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Why Grow Tulips in Water?

Growing tulips in water is a great option for those who:

Are impatient and want to enjoy blooms sooner
Don’t have a lot of outdoor space
Want to observe the rooting process up close

Materials You’ll Need:

Healthy tulip bulbs
Glass vase or forcing vase
Rocks, glass beads, or gravel
Water

Step 1: Pre-Chill the Bulbs

Tulip bulbs need a period of cold to stimulate growth. Place them in a paper bag and store them in the refrigerator for 12-15 weeks.

Step 2: Choose a Container

A glass vase is a good choice because it allows light to reach the roots. If you’re using a forcing vase, make sure the bulb sits just above the waterline.

Step 3: Plant the Bulbs

Line the bottom of the vase with rocks, glass beads, or gravel. Place the tulip bulb on top, pointy end up. The beads or rocks should hold the bulb out of the water while allowing the roots to reach moisture.

Step 4: Fill the Vase

Fill the vase with water until it comes about 1 inch below the bottom of the bulb.

Step 5: Place in a Cool, Dark Location

Move the vase to a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. This will help the roots to develop.

Step 6: Change the Water

Change the water weekly to prevent rot. Check for signs of sprouting during this time.

Step 7: Move to a Lit Area

Once the bulbs have sprouted, move the vase to a well-lit area. Place it in a bright, sunny window.

Step 8: Enjoy the Blooms

Within a few weeks, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful tulip blooms. Your forced tulips should last for a week or more.

Tips for Success:

Use healthy, firm bulbs for best results.
Avoid overwatering. The roots should be moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilize the tulips every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Once the blooms have faded, remove the spent greens and store the bulbs in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion

Growing tulips in water is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the beauty of spring flowers indoors early. By following these simple steps, you can easily grow your own tulips and brighten up your home with their vibrant colors and delicate fragrance.

Gardening

How to Grow Tulips: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners (2023)

by Gregory January 12, 2023

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

How to Grow Tulips: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Tulips are a beloved springtime flower that adds vibrant color and beauty to any garden. With their wide range of varieties and flowering times, tulips can provide a continuous display of blooms from early spring to late May. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, growing tulips is easy with the right knowledge.

Planting Tulips

When to Plant: Plant tulip bulbs in the fall, from mid-October to early December. Planting after the first frost reduces the risk of tulip fire, a fungal disease.
Where to Plant: Tulips prefer a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Improve heavy soils with organic matter or horticultural grit.
How to Plant: Dig a hole three times the depth of the bulb and place the bulb pointed end up. Space bulbs about 5 cm apart. For the best display, plant tulips in groups or masses.

Growing Tulips

Watering: Water tulips regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to bulb rot.
Fertilizing: Fertilize tulips in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid overfertilizing, which can encourage foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Deadheading: Remove spent tulip flowers to prevent the plant from wasting energy on seed production. Leave the foliage to yellow and die back naturally, as it provides energy for the bulb.

Propagating Tulips

Lifting and Storing Bulbs: Some gardeners prefer to lift and store tulip bulbs after flowering. Lift bulbs once the foliage has turned yellow. Remove foliage and store bulbs in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
Offset Bulbs: Offsets, or small bulbs that form on the sides of the main bulb, can be gently pulled away and planted separately. Store offsets in the same conditions as main bulbs.

Troubleshooting Common Tulip Problems

Tulip Fire: A fungal disease that causes distorted shoots, stunted leaves, and brown blotches. Plant tulip bulbs after the first frost to reduce the risk.
Squirrels: Squirrels may dig up and eat tulip bulbs. Deter them by covering planted areas with chicken wire or landscape staples.

Buying Tulips

When to Buy: Buy tulip bulbs from late summer to early fall for the best selection.
What to Look For: Choose firm bulbs with no signs of mold or damage.
Where to Buy: Garden centers and online suppliers offer a wide variety of tulip bulbs.

Tulip Varieties and Flowering Times

Early Tulips (Late March to April):
- Single early: Simple, cup-shaped flowers on strong stems.
- Double early: Long-lasting, double flowers that resemble peonies.
- Kaufmanniana hybrids: Flowers with a slight resemblance to water lilies.
- Species / botanical tulips: Small and delicate, ideal for rockeries or containers.
Mid-Season Tulips (April to May):
- Triumph tulips: Tough tulips with strong stems and a wide range of colors.
- Darwin hybrids: Tall tulips with large, goblet-shaped flowers.
- Fosteriana hybrids: Slender flowers with purple or brown markings.
- Lily flowered: Elegant, pointed flowers that resemble lilies.
- Fringed: Cup-shaped flowers with frilly edges.
- Viridiflora: Petals with green markings.
- Rembrandt: Long-stemmed varieties with streaky, bi-colored blooms.
- Parrot: Flamboyant flowers with fringed or twisted petals.
- Greigii hybrids: Marbled or striped foliage with large, brightly colored flowers.
Late Tulips (May):
- Single late/Darwin: Oval flowers on tall, strong stems.
- Double late/peony flowered: Large, double flowers that resemble peonies.

Tulips as Cut Flowers

Tulips make excellent cut flowers with a long vase life. Avoid mixing daffodils and tulips in a vase, as daffodils release a substance that can prevent tulips from absorbing water.

Conclusion

Growing tulips is a rewarding experience that can bring a burst of color and beauty to your garden for many years to come. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the vibrant blooms of tulips season after season.

Flower Gardening

Darwin Tulips: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing, Care, and Varieties

by Gregory March 12, 2022

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Darwin Tulips: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Darwin tulips are a popular type of hybrid tulip that is known for its large, showy blooms and vibrant colors. They are a cross between single-late tulips and Emperor tulips, and were first introduced in the 1950s. Darwin tulips are relatively easy to grow and make a beautiful addition to any garden.

Characteristics of Darwin Tulips

Darwin tulips are known for their large, cup-shaped blooms, which can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. They come in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, pink, and ivory. Some varieties are even striped or have feathered markings. Darwin tulips typically have sturdy stems that can withstand wind and rain, and they bloom in mid-spring.

Growing Darwin Tulips

Darwin tulips are best planted in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Plant the bulbs pointy side up, about 6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. Water the bulbs well after planting.

Darwin tulips are relatively low-maintenance plants. They require regular watering, but be careful not to overwater. Fertilize the bulbs in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead the flowers after they bloom to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production.

Choosing the Right Darwin Tulip Bulbs

When choosing Darwin tulip bulbs, look for healthy bulbs that are free of pests and diseases. Choose bulbs that are at least 2 inches in diameter. Avoid bulbs that are soft or have any signs of damage.

Popular Darwin Tulip Varieties

There are many different varieties of Darwin tulips available, each with its own unique color and form. Some popular varieties include:

‘Apeldoorn’ (red)
‘Golden Apeldoorn’ (yellow)
‘Pink Impression’ (pink)
‘White Emperor’ (white)
‘Oxford’ (purple)

Troubleshooting Common Darwin Tulip Problems

Darwin tulips are generally disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to a few common problems, such as:

Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause the bulbs to rot and the leaves to turn yellow and brown.
Aphids: These small, green insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant.
Thrips: These tiny, slender insects can cause the flowers to become distorted and discolored.

To prevent these problems, keep the garden clean and free of debris. Inspect the plants regularly for pests and diseases, and treat them as needed.

Conclusion

Darwin tulips are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With their large, vibrant blooms and sturdy stems, they are sure to make a statement in your landscape. By following the tips in this guide, you can grow healthy and beautiful Darwin tulips for years to come.

Flower Gardening

How Much Water Do Tulips Need? A Complete Guide to Watering Tulips

by Gregory August 28, 2021

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

How Much Water Do Tulips Need?

Tulips are one of the easiest flowers to grow. They’re perfect for beginners because they don’t require a lot of water or care. But how much water do tulips need?

Watering Tulip Bulbs

When you plant tulip bulbs in the fall, water them deeply once. This will help the bulbs to wake up and start growing. After that, you can pretty much forget about them. Tulips don’t need a lot of water, and they can actually rot if they’re overwatered.

Watering Tulips in the Garden

If you’re growing tulips in the garden, you don’t need to water them very often. In fact, you can usually get away with just watering them during periods of drought. When you do water them, make sure to soak the soil deeply.

Watering Tulips in Pots

If you’re growing tulips in pots, you’ll need to water them more often than tulips in the garden. This is because the soil in pots dries out more quickly. Water your tulips in pots when the top inch of soil is dry.

How to Prevent Tulip Bulbs from Rotting

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when growing tulips is overwatering them. Tulips are susceptible to rot, especially if they’re sitting in waterlogged soil. Make sure to plant your tulips in well-drained soil, and avoid overwatering them.

How to Grow Tulips in Containers

Tulips are a great choice for growing in containers. They’re easy to care for, and they can add a splash of color to your patio or balcony. When growing tulips in containers, be sure to use a potting mix that drains well. You’ll also need to water your tulips more often than tulips in the garden.

How to Care for Tulips in the Garden

Tulips are relatively low-maintenance flowers. They don’t need a lot of fertilizer or care. However, there are a few things you can do to help your tulips thrive.

Fertilize your tulips in the spring. This will help them to produce more flowers.
Deadhead your tulips after they bloom. This will prevent them from going to seed and will help them to produce more flowers the following year.
Divide your tulips every few years. This will help to keep them healthy and vigorous.

When to Water Tulips

The best time to water tulips is in the morning. This will give the leaves time to dry before nightfall, which will help to prevent disease.

Why Are My Tulips Not Blooming?

There are a few reasons why your tulips may not be blooming.

You’re not watering them enough. Tulips need to be watered deeply and regularly, especially during the spring when they’re actively growing.
You’re overwatering them. Tulips can rot if they’re sitting in waterlogged soil. Make sure to plant your tulips in well-drained soil, and avoid overwatering them.
They’re not getting enough sunlight. Tulips need at least six hours of sunlight per day to bloom. Make sure to plant them in a sunny spot in your garden.
They’re not getting enough nutrients. Tulips need to be fertilized in the spring to produce flowers. Use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for bulbs.

What to Do If My Tulip Bulbs Rot

If your tulip bulbs rot, it’s important to dig them up and discard them. Rotting bulbs can spread disease to other plants in your garden.

Additional Tips for Growing Tulips

Plant tulip bulbs in the fall, about 6 inches deep and 6 inches apart.
Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil.
Water your tulips deeply after planting, and then water them regularly during the spring.
Deadhead your tulips after they bloom to prevent them from going to seed.
Divide your tulips every few years to keep them healthy and vigorous.

Flower Gardening

Fertilizing Tulips: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory December 17, 2020

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Fertilizing Tulips: A Guide for Beginners

Tulips are beautiful spring flowers that can add a splash of color to any garden. However, tulips are known for being somewhat finicky, and they may not always return year after year. One of the most important things you can do to ensure that your tulips come back year after year is to fertilize them properly.

Why Fertilize Tulips?

Fertilizing tulips provides them with the nutrients they need to grow and bloom. When tulips are fertilized, they will produce larger, more vibrant flowers. They will also be more resistant to pests and diseases.

When to Fertilize Tulips

The best time to fertilize tulips is in the fall, after the bulbs have been planted. This gives the bulbs time to absorb the nutrients before they go dormant for the winter. You can also fertilize tulips in the spring, but it is not as effective.

How to Fertilize Tulips

There are two ways to fertilize tulips:

From the top of the soil: This is the most common way to fertilize tulips. Simply sprinkle the fertilizer around the base of the plant, and then water it in.
Into the planting hole: You can also fertilize tulips by placing a small amount of fertilizer in the planting hole before you plant the bulb. Be careful not to put too much fertilizer in the hole, as this can burn the roots of the bulb.

What Kind of Fertilizer to Use

The best kind of fertilizer to use for tulips is a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient ratio of 9-9-6. This means that the fertilizer contains 9% nitrogen, 9% phosphorus, and 6% potassium. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer, which will release nutrients to the bulbs over a period of time.

Organic Tulip Fertilizer

If you prefer to use organic fertilizers, you can make your own tulip fertilizer using a mixture of equal parts blood meal, greensand, and bone meal. This fertilizer is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and it will help your tulips grow and bloom beautifully.

Tips for Fertilizing Tulips

Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
Do not over-fertilize your tulips, as this can damage the bulbs.
Water your tulips after fertilizing them.
Fertilize your tulips every fall to ensure that they come back year after year.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Fertilizing Tulips

Fertilizing tulips in the spring: Fertilizing tulips in the spring is not as effective as fertilizing them in the fall.
Using too much fertilizer: Over-fertilizing tulips can damage the bulbs.
Not watering tulips after fertilizing them: Watering tulips after fertilizing them helps the fertilizer to reach the roots of the bulbs.
Fertilizing tulips with the wrong kind of fertilizer: Using the wrong kind of fertilizer can damage the bulbs or prevent them from blooming.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your tulips are getting the nutrients they need to grow and bloom beautifully year after year.