Blue Spectacle Double Peony Tulip

Your bulbs arrive dormant and ready to plant. Unpack them right away and store in a cool, dry, dark spot until you're ready to get them in the ground.

Planting

1. Time it for fall. Plant in autumn, several weeks before the ground freezes, so bulbs get the winter chill they need to bloom.
2. Pick a sunny spot. Choose a site with full sun to part shade and well-drained soil; tulips will rot in soggy ground.
3. Dig 6 inches deep. Set each bulb pointed end up, spacing them 3-6 inches apart for a full, clustered look.
4. Backfill and water in. Cover with soil, firm gently, and water once to settle the bed.
5. Mulch lightly. Add 1-2 inches of mulch to moderate soil temperature over winter.

Watering

• Keep it moderate. Water when the top inch of soil dries out during active growth in spring.
• Ease off after bloom. Once flowers fade and foliage yellows, stop watering and let bulbs go dormant and dry.

Feeding

• Feed at planting. Mix a balanced bulb fertilizer or bone meal into the planting hole.
• Top-dress in spring. Apply a light dose of balanced fertilizer as shoots emerge.

After Bloom Care

• Deadhead spent flowers. Snip off faded blooms to keep the bed tidy.
• Leave the leaves. Let foliage die back naturally before removing it so the bulb can recharge.
• Cut for the vase. Harvest stems when buds are just showing color for the longest vase life.

Container Growing

• Use deep pots. Choose containers at least 8-10 inches deep with drainage holes and quality potting mix.
• Protect in cold zones. Move potted bulbs to an unheated garage or shelter during hard freezes.

How many bulbs come in an order?

Each order includes 10 bulbs, each 12 cm in size.

When should I plant these tulip bulbs?

Plant in fall, a few weeks before the ground freezes. The bulbs need a period of winter cold to set flowers for late spring bloom.

Will Blue Spectacle come back every year?

Tulips are perennial in zones 3-8, and Blue Spectacle often returns for a few seasons in well-drained soil. Many gardeners plant fresh bulbs every couple of years to keep the display at its fullest.

Are tulip bulbs safe around pets?

No. Tulip bulbs and foliage are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if eaten. Plant where curious pets dig, or use containers out of reach.

Do deer and rabbits eat tulips?

Yes, tulips are a favorite of both. Use fencing, repellents, or plant in protected beds and containers if wildlife pressure is heavy in your area.

How tall do the stems get for cutting?

Plants reach about 20 inches tall with sturdy upright stems, which makes them a strong choice for bouquets.