Apeldoorn's Elite Tulip Bulb

Apeldoorn's Elite Tulip Bulbs (Darwin Hybrid) bring a classic, large tulip to the garden in an eye-catching mix of red and yellow that gives off an orangish hue. The blooms measure up to 6-inches in diameter when fully opened. They make excellent cut flowers! Tulips are a must have of any spring blooming bulbs. Let the foliage die back naturally, and they will come back year after year. Recommended spacing for fall planted Apeldoorn's Elite Tulip bulbs is 3 inches apart at a depth of 4 inches

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant bulbs in the fall, 6-8 weeks before the ground freezes.
• - Dig a hole about 6-8 inches deep and place the bulb with the pointy side up.
• - Space bulbs about 4-6 inches apart for optimal growth.

Soil Preparation:

• - Prefers well-draining, loamy soil.
• - Amend heavy clay soils with sand or organic matter to improve drainage.
• - Soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic (6.0-7.0).

Watering Specifics:

• - Water bulbs thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.
• - During the growing season, keep soil evenly moist, but not soggy.
• - Reduce watering as leaves start to yellow and the plant enters dormancy.

Fertilizer Type:

• - Add a bulb-specific fertilizer or balanced slow-release fertilizer at planting time.
• - Fertilize again in early spring as shoots emerge for stronger blooms.
• - Avoid heavy fertilization, which can result in more foliage than flowers.

Pruning and Care:

• - Deadhead spent flowers to direct energy back into the bulb for next year’s growth.
• - Allow leaves to die back naturally; do not cut them until they are fully yellowed, as they store nutrients for the bulb.
• - Mulch in winter to protect bulbs from extreme cold in colder climates.

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch out for pests like aphids, slugs, and snails.
• - Protect bulbs from rodents by placing a layer of gravel or wire mesh over the planting site.

Blooming Indicators:

• - Apeldoorn’s Elite Tulips produce large, cup-shaped blooms in vibrant red and yellow bicolors.
• - Blooms in mid-spring, typically in April to early May.
• - Flowers last about 1-2 weeks in cool conditions.

Light Requirements:

• - Thrives in full sun for best blooming (6-8 hours of direct sunlight).
• - Can tolerate partial shade, but may produce fewer flowers.

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
• - Requires a cold period (below 40°F) for proper blooming.
• - In warmer climates (zones 8-10), refrigerate bulbs for 12-16 weeks before planting.

Companion Plants for Apeldoorn’s Elite Tulip:

• - Pansies: Low-growing plants that bloom in early spring and pair well with tulips.
• - Daffodils: Another spring-blooming bulb that complements tulips with contrasting yellow blooms.
• - Grape Hyacinth: Adds beautiful blue hues to your spring garden and pairs well with the tulip’s bold colors.
• - Forget-Me-Nots: These delicate blue flowers provide ground cover and visual interest with taller tulip blooms.