Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 9/11/2006

Question
Good Afternoon,

I'm new to the tulip game - and have some bulbs that I would like to plant.  I intend on moving in a few years and wonder if I am able to take some of the tulips with me (they have sentimental value).  When is the best time to transplant bulbs - when the greenery is still there - or - is it possible to dig up the bulbs themselves?  If so - is it possible to store them temporarily before replanting?  Thank you,

Erica Rogers

Answer
Plant tulip bulbs after the soil has cooled in fall. This is typically in October/November in most parts of USA (later in the warmer areas).

Best time to harvest tulip bulbs is after the green stem w/leaves die back in spring. When the foliage has withered you can still "locate" the bulbs from the dead leaves but the bulb has gone dormant. With some care, you can also dig up the bulbs in summer but be careful not slicing into the bulbs. If you dig them in spring, try to replant immediately at same dept where they were planted.

Except for certain specific bulbs, most tulip bulbs only last a few years before they die back. If you move in a few years, it may not be worth moving them.