Can I leave tulip bulbs in the ground?

Whether or not to leave tulip bulbs in the ground varies based on your climate zone and soil conditions. In colder climate zones (3 - 7) bulbs often survive a winter if planted at the proper depth and protected from animals. I always check the drainage first. Poor drainage causes bulbs to rot during a very wet winter. Good drainage allows the bulbs to stay undisturbed for years.

Soil drainage is the most important factor for successful overwintering. Test drainage by digging out a 12-inch hole and filling it with water. Good sites will drain completely within two hours. I improve clay soils by mixing them with coarse sand and compost materials. This helps prevent water from draining around bulbs during the rainy season.

Tulips in containers require extra winter protection. If possible, place your pots in an unheated garage, on the south side of your house, or against the house's foundation. I wrap my containers in bubble wrap for insulation. Water them every month to prevent them from drying out, but avoid overwatering, which can cause them to rot. NEVER leave containers out in the freeze-thaw cycle on your patios.

Bulb lifting is needed for warmer areas or adverse conditions. Wait until the foliage is completely yellow before digging. I do very little more than brush the dirt off the bulbs; I don't even wash them. Store in the shaded-air (well-ventilated) for one week. Store in paper bags labeled for fall replanting.

Perennial varieties such as Darwin Hybrids provide better retention rates. Their genetics enable them to undergo repeated growth cycles when conditions permit. I mark these bulbs with colored stakes. Even hardy types will not last forever; after about 3-4 seasons, they will fade and need to be replaced.

Read the full article: When to Plant Tulips for Spring Success