Planting tulip seeds requires patience, as it typically takes three to four years for seedlings to reach flowering size. Here's how to do it:
-
Prepare the Container: Fill a container with well-draining potting mix.
-
Sow the Seeds: Lightly cover the tulip seeds with sieved compost.
-
Add Grit: Finish with a ½cm (¼in) layer of horticultural grit. This helps with drainage and prevents rot.
-
Chill the Seeds: Tulip seeds need chilling to germinate. Leave the container outdoors during the winter months. This cold stratification period is essential for breaking dormancy.
-
Wait for Spring: Seedlings should appear in the spring.
-
Continued Care: Keep the seedlings watered and protect them from pests. Be patient; it will take several years for them to mature and bloom.
