Is it possible to plant tulips in spring, when and how to carry out the procedure

Traditionally, tulips are planted in the fall. This approach ensures better survival of flowers. But due to the fact that many plants are sown after cold weather, the question arises whether it is possible to plant a tulip in the spring. Gardeners say that there are no direct contraindications to this. The main thing is to properly prepare the soil for planting and provide regular care for the flower.

Is it possible to plant tulips in spring?

Central Asia is considered the birthplace of this plant. Flowers bloom in this area after the onset of spring. But with the onset of summer, the situation changes: due to high temperatures and lack of precipitation, many plants dry out.

In the warm season, the tulip leaves fall off, and all the strength is concentrated in the bulb. It is in the summer that the plant forms new roots.

During the winter, the flower collects the nutrients necessary for growth, and with the onset of warmth it blooms. Bulbs planted in spring, with proper care, also take root. However, the onion must be prepared first.

Planting dates according to the lunar calendar and in different regions

The period when tulips can be planted depends on the region in which the plant is sown:

• southern regions - February or March;
• Middle Strip - April;
• northern territories - May.

According to the lunar calendar, planting is recommended on February 23 or 24, from March 21 to 26, from April 17 to 24, or from May 19 to 21. In order for the bulbs to take root, the procedure should be completed before July. In this case, an important condition for successful germination is a suitable soil temperature at a depth of 10 centimeters, which should exceed 9 degrees.

Technology for planting tulips in spring

Planting tulips in the spring is allowed, provided that the rules for preparing the bulbs are followed. In order for the plant to take root, it is necessary:

• wrap the bulbs in paper with small holes and put them in the refrigerator, keeping the plant at a temperature of +4, +6 degrees for two to three months (more is possible);
• Place the prepared onion in a weak solution of potassium permanganate for half an hour;
• Inspect the bulbs for rot or other defects.

If the preparation rules are followed, after the onset of spring you can begin planting in the ground.

Selecting a location

To germinate tulips in the spring, it is recommended to choose a place with constant and sufficient sunlight. Otherwise, the plant will begin to reach for the light source. You should also plant other flowers next to the tulips, as the first ones quickly fall off, leaving empty space in the garden bed.

Disinfection

Provided you follow the rules for preparing tulips for planting in the spring, additional disinfection of the plant or soil will not be required.

Preparation of the plot

After the snow has melted and the soil has thawed, it is recommended to dig up the bed in which it is planned to plant flowers to the depth of a bayonet shovel and loosen it. This will ensure sufficient oxygen supply to the plant and good survival of the tulips. During digging, you need to add a small amount of sand, which will act as drainage.

At the same time, any organic fertilizers other than manure should be added to the soil. Mineral (nitrogen) fertilizing also ensures good germination.

Holes for bulbs

It is recommended to form holes for bulbs at a distance of 10 centimeters from each other. Before planting, you should water the prepared holes.

Planting tulips in the ground

Flowers in spring are planted at a depth of 10-13 (large bulbs) or 5-8 (small). It is recommended to water the holes evenly, avoiding waterlogging of the area. After this, the plant is covered with soil and the bed is leveled. At the end of the procedure, it is recommended to water the bulbs twice with an interval of 20 minutes. This ends the spring planting of tulips. If the described rules are followed, the first shoots will appear after two weeks.

How to care for planted tulips?

Tulips planted in spring begin to bloom later. In the period before the formation of buds, it is recommended to regularly remove weeds from the garden bed that interfere with the normal growth of the plant. At this time, it is necessary to ensure sufficient watering, avoiding waterlogging of the soil. Water should not get on the stems and leaves.

After each watering (rain), you should loosen the soil near the flower during the spring. This ensures a constant and sufficient flow of oxygen to the roots, thereby accelerating plant growth.

After the first shoots appear, liquid mineral fertilizers are introduced into the soil: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, mixed in a ratio of 2:2:1.

How to care for tulips after flowering?

After the tulips fade, it is recommended to remove fallen leaves from the garden bed, while continuing to water the garden bed for 14 days. After one week, the plant heads need to be trimmed. Thanks to this, the tulips will bloom again next year.

The stems must be cut off when the plant turns completely yellow. When performing these manipulations, it is important not to touch the bulb. Then, in summer or autumn, on a sunny day, you need to dig up and dry the planting material.

Diseases and pests of tulips

Failure to follow the rules for planting and caring for flowers planted in spring provokes:

• early decay (with excess moisture);
• drying out (due to lack of moisture);
• thinning of stems (due to lack of sun);
• change in leaf color, slower growth (due to acidic soil).

Even if the described recommendations are followed, it is impossible to prevent the development of diseases or pests. The following can cause the death of flowers:

1. Variegation. The disease is characterized by wilting of buds and the formation of streaks on stems and leaves.If variegation appears, you need to destroy the flower and do not plant plants in this place for the next five years.
2. White rot. It is characterized by the formation of bluish-gray spots on the flower. White rot develops on plants growing in waterlogged or acidified soil. To prevent infection, it is recommended to periodically add small amounts of magnesium and calcium to the soil. If the disease is caused by an excess of nitrogen, the soil should be fertilized with lime. Affected flowers should be completely removed along with the roots.
3. Wet rot (fusarium). It is distinguished by the appearance of brown spots on the flowers, along the perimeter of which there is a brown-red stripe. Wet rot develops in waterlogged soils during the period when the first shoots are formed. The air temperature should exceed 20 degrees. The affected flower is removed. Within 5 years after detection of fusarium, it is not recommended to plant plants in the same place.

If there is a deficiency of fertilizer, tulips do not bloom. Deep planting of bulbs can also lead to this.