Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 9/4/2006

Question
Hi, I live in zip code 94122 - San Francisco. Lots of microclimates here...too many, actually!  Anyway, I have never planted bulbs before, but am excited about trying it for the first time.  I recently purchased from Costco a bag of 50 bulbs:  25 Hollandia and 25 Carnaval de Rio.  Since we really don't have frost here (but tons of fog) when should I plant?  Should I keep the bulbs refrigerated until planting?  What about planting in giant outdoor pots- when should that occur? Thank you very much.

Answer
Tulips need to be cooled 15-18 weeks below 40F consistently (temperatures can not vary) in order to bloom. I doubt you have cold enough temperatures in San Francisco do accomplish the cooling, but you can give it a try.

If possible, plant the tulip bulbs in pots and refrigerate them for 4 months before planting. If not, you can try to plant them and see if it works.