Tucking in Tulips

Like bears and groundhogs, tulip bulbs will be hibernating in the winter months prior to their cheerful awakening in spring. Here are some tips on preparing their beds for a long winter's nap.

• In cooler climates, plant bulbs when the high temperature is expected to stay below 65 degrees, but before the first hard frost—usually November. In warmer places, pre-chilling the bulbs is necessary to trick them into their dormant spell. Snuggle them into ventilated bags filled with peat moss, put them in the refrigerator for 45 to 60 days, then wait until December or January to plant them. Keep them away from fruits (particularly apples) that emit ethylene gas as they ripen.
• Choose a planting site with good drainage that has 4 to 6 hours of springtime sunlight. A soil pH of 6 to 7 will yield the best color.
• Clear the area of any dead matter, then dig the holes about 4 to 6 inches apart and 6 to 12 inches deep, depending on bulb size.
• Select loose, airy mulch such as straw, marsh hay, compost, or pine needles. Avoid whole-tree leaves, especially maple; they can trap moisture and freeze together, smothering the bulbs.

BARBARA COOTS