Do tulips require full sun or shade?

Sunlight directly affects tulip performance, bloom quality, and experience. These spring jewels require a solid six hours of direct sunlight during the entire growth phase. I place my beds away from buildings and deciduous trees. In hotter areas, it prefers morning sun but also appreciates afternoon shade.

--- Seasonal light changes impact tulip performance greatly. Spring sun angles are different, and summer intensity is also different. I analyze the light patterns of my garden before planting. Watch the shadows during March and April. South-facing slopes receive the best exposure, while north-facing areas require a more thoughtful selection of varieties.

Lack of sunlight weakens stems and causes poor flowering. Tulips lean toward the light, causing weak stems and top-heavy plants. I immediately stake impacted plants. Flowers will also be smaller, and the bloom period will be shorter. Groundcovers, such as sedum, planted in companionship with bulbs, help utilize reflected light.

Light management can also prolong blooming periods in warm climates. A 50% shade cloth can be used for the afternoon hours of peak sun exposure. I personally build temporary 30% shade structures (like this) when temperatures are above 75 degrees F. This also helps with petal scorch, but more importantly for plant health, it maintains photosynthesis. Monitor the plants daily for signs of stress.

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