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The Pella Garden Club exists to promote a love of plants and living things. We provide education in areas of flower arranging, horticulture and landscape design.
Please be advised that, due to the East Coast dockworkers strike, we are unable to give a definite arrival date for our tulip bulbs at this time. Thanks for your patience and understanding!
Please be advised that, due to the East Coast dockworkers strike, we are unable to give those expecting tulip bulbs a definite date of arrival a this time. We appreciate your understanding and patience!
Thanks for shopping with us!
Tulip Planting FAQ
When do the bulbs arrive?
The bulbs are shipped directly to us from the Netherlands, so the timing is not always the same. Typically, they will arrive on your doorstep at the end of October or early November.
When should I plant the bulbs?
In zones 1-4, you can start planting them in late September if the ground is cool. In zones 4-7, late October or mid-November is best!
How deep should I plant them? How far apart?
Tulip bulbs should be planted 8-9 inches deep.
If you like clumps of tulips, plant them right next to each other. If you like rows, plant them 3-4 inches apart.
What is the best way to keep wildlife from eating the bulbs?
The best way is to plant them as deep as recommended, then it will be too difficult for the animals to reach them!
Should I fertilize them?
You can, but use a synthetic bulb food because it is less likely to attract unwanted animals.
Do I need to amend the soil?
This is not necessary, but keep in mind you do need to work the soil well and then cover the bulbs completely with the well-worked soil.
Can I plant my bulbs in a container?
This is not recommended because the bulbs will get too cold and “freeze out.” The ground can hold in more heat whereas a container will be closer to the frigid air.
How many years will the bulbs bloom? Do they multiply?
Usually tulip bulbs bloom just one year, we cannot guarantee that our bulbs will bloom more than once. Tulip bulbs do not multiply.
Where are the bulbs we are ordering at Tulip Time?
They are still in the ground in the Netherlands!
What are the names of the tulip in the beds around town?
Check out the Pella Now app to find a map of the bulbs that have been planted in the city parks.
The Mission of the Pella Garden Club
To educate and promote the love of plants through flower shows, programs, and garden tours.