Tulips are spring-flowering bulbs that need a prolonged period of cold temperature to grow and bloom properly. In most of the United States, this cold period is provided naturally by a winter spent planted outside in the ground. However, bulbs planted in warmer regions of the country in growing zones 11-7b including the Deep South, the desert Southwest, and most of California do not get the cold temperature they need because the outdoor ambient temperature and soil temperatures in the winter are warmer than what the tulip bulb requires for proper bud and flower development.
To reach their proper flowering development in warmer regions, they must be given time pre-cooling at (34-45 degrees F) for 6 to 12 weeks before planting. Bulbs that don’t get sufficient cooling will have stunted growth, shorter stems and deformed flowers. We’ve done that pre-cooling for you here on our farm in our temperature and humidity controlled coolers ensure optimum health and viability of the bulb.
Pre-cooled tulip bulbs are ideal for growing in warmer climates, USDA zones 7b-11, but can be planted in any zone as long as your ground isn't frozen!
To learn more about pre-cooled tulip bulbs, visit our blog post.