How To Grow Tulips In Florida. Success In 3 Steps

There are three steps to tackle to learn how to grow tulips in Florida. It might be surprising to see bulbous plants that thrive in cold weather in states like Florida, but it is possible to develop them using the tips below. However, if you are in central Florida, you might benefit more from growing potted tulips as annuals instead of perennials

The discovery of different gardening methods and techniques makes it possible to grow tulips regardless of your area. You can use greenhouses and hydroponic systems to ensure healthy blooms even though your location is different from tulips’ native areas. Read this article to know more about growing tulips in Florida and similar states. 

How To Grow Tulips In Florida. Success In 3 Steps

 

Step #1. Planning

Florida’s hardiness zones range from 8a to 11a, making the state favorable for growing bulbous plants. However, we all know that tulips thrive in cold regions, so growing them in a state like Florida requires specific techniques. You can still grow tulips in Florida, but you have to plan accordingly. 

For example, remember that tulips require cold months to enter dormancy and the winter season in Florida is too warm to encourage tulips to go dormant. You can solve this drawback by planting tulips as annuals instead. Sure the tulips will only bloom for one season, but you have to accept this compromise if you want to grow tulips in Florida.

The good news is you can dig up the tulips after blooming and replace them with summer flowers. The best tulips for annual growing are hybrid varieties, and you can opt to prepare them yourself. Some sellers even sell pre-chilled bulbs ready for planting in spring. 

 

Step #2. Preparation

According to the University of Florida, you can treat tulips as annuals by chilling bulbs for two to four months for planting in winter. You can also buy the bulbs eight weeks before you intend to plant, and you can prepare for growing depending on the zone you live in. For example, those in zone 8 can plant from November to December, and those in zone 10 should plant from December to January. 

How do you prepare the bulbs for planting? You can simply put them in a paper bag and then into the refrigerator. However, note that ripening fruits can damage the tulips due to ethylene gas, so check where you’ll put them in the fridge. 

It would also be best to prepare the site for planting to prevent the bulbs from drying out. You can consider growing the tulips in the greenhouse if your climate is unstable. Either way, a bright area with fertile, well-draining soil is excellent for tulips. 

 

Step #3. Planting

Once you have planned everything and you’re sure with the proper planting date, you can grow the bulbs on the site you prepared. A space of eight inches among them is ideal, and you can plant the bulbs at a depth of five inches with their points facing up. Cover the bulbs with soil and mulch over the ground for better moisture retention while also controlling weed. 

The maintenance requirement, at this point, is keeping the ground moist throughout the tulips’ growing period. Some gardeners also fertilize the ground before watering, but always check the label instructions for the fertilizer you’ll use. Don’t forget to remove the mulch as well once the ground starts to warm up. 

You can expect your flowers to bloom in spring if they experience no challenges while growing. However, do note that those in zone 11 should probably skip planting tulips as Northern Florida would be the only part of the state suitable for growing tulips. Some areas in Florida would be too warm for growing tulips or if you want, opt for bulbs to survive the south’s climate.

 

Caring For Tulips

To ensure that your tulips will thrive, you have to provide the proper care and maintenance for them. This is true, regardless of where you plant them. For example, the best location for tulips is somewhere bright because shade does not support their growth. 

You must also check your soil if it needs amendments regarding its structure, pH level, and nutrients. However, the most common reason that damages tulips is wet soil. You can easily avoid this by using well-draining soil and watering only when necessary during drought.  

You can also support your tulips by feeding in spring and composting yearly for better blooms. In addition, remove the faded flowers and let the foliage rejuvenate itself until it turns yellow for pruning. Lastly, don’t forget to check the space of your tulips and replant if necessary. 

 

Conclusion

Tulips are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful flowers to have, but those living in states like Florida might feel left out in growing these plants that require cold weather for dormancy. However, you can learn how to grow tulips in Florida by treating them as annuals. Those in the northern part of the state under zones 8 to 10 can use pre-chilled bulbs and plant them outdoors or in the greenhouse. 

You can place the bulbs in a paper bag and into the refrigerator away from fruits. Chill them for two to four months and plant according to your growing zone. Choose a bright area with fertile and well-draining soil for the tulips, and they should be in bloom by spring.