White Emperor Tulip Bulb

White Emperor Tulip Bulbs (Tulipa Fosteriana) is an heirloom favorite for its reliability, long lasting cup shaped blooms in bright white shades, and lovely lemon scented fragrance. You can’t go wrong with this one! 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 White Emperor Tulip bulbs is 3 inches apart at a depth of 4 inches.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant White Emperor Tulip bulbs in the fall, 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost.
• - Choose a location with full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil to avoid bulb rot.
• - Dig holes 6-8 inches deep and space bulbs about 4-6 inches apart.
• - Place the bulbs with the pointed side facing up, cover with soil, and water thoroughly after planting.

Soil Preparation:

• - White Emperor Tulips thrive in well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
• - If your soil is heavy or clay-based, amend with compost or sand to improve drainage.
• - The ideal soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.0.

Watering Specifics:

• - Water the bulbs thoroughly after planting to help them establish.
• - Once the ground freezes in winter, no additional watering is needed.
• - In spring, water regularly but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent sogginess.

Fertilizer Type:

• - At planting time, add a bulb fertilizer or bone meal to promote strong root development.
• - Fertilize again in early spring when new growth emerges to support healthy blooms.
• - Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with high nitrogen content, to prevent excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.

Pruning and Care:

• - Deadhead spent blooms to encourage energy storage for next year’s blooms, but leave the foliage intact.
• - Allow the leaves to die back naturally, as they help replenish the bulb's energy for the next growing season.
• - Once the foliage has fully yellowed and withered, it can be removed.
• - White Emperor Tulips can be perennialized in regions with cold winters, but they may perform best as annuals in warmer zones.

Pest Management:

• - Tulips can be susceptible to pests like aphids, slugs, and rodents.
• - Aphids can be controlled using insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water.
• - To protect bulbs from rodents, consider planting with wire mesh or using rodent-repellent products.
• - White Emperor Tulips are generally deer-resistant but can sometimes be nibbled by wildlife.

Blooming Indicators:

• - White Emperor Tulips bloom early in the spring, typically in March or April, depending on your climate.
• - They produce large, cup-shaped, pure white flowers that stand out against the bright green foliage.
• - The plant grows to a height of around 12-14 inches, making it a perfect mid-border plant or companion in mixed beds.
• - Excellent for cutting, White Emperor Tulips also make a beautiful statement in flower arrangements.

Light Requirements:

• - White Emperor Tulips prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
• - For the best blooms, ensure the tulips receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-7, these tulips can withstand cold winter temperatures, making them ideal for northern regions.
• - In areas with milder winters, pre-chilling the bulbs for 10-12 weeks in the refrigerator before planting can help simulate the cold period they need to bloom well.

Companion Plants for White Emperor Tulip:

• - Pink Impression Tulip: Soft pink tulips pair beautifully with the classic white of White Emperor.
• - Dutch Master Daffodil: A cheery yellow daffodil provides a bright contrast against the white blooms.
• - Purple Prince Tulip: Deep purple hues add a dramatic touch to your tulip garden.
• - Mount Hood Daffodil: Their similar flowering times and matching white colors make them an elegant combination.