How To Store Tulip Bulbs: 12 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Store Tulip Bulbs in Summer & Winter PDF download Download Article Learn how to preserve tulip bulbs so they'll bloom in spring Co-authored by Raven Minyard, BA Reviewed by Ben Barkan

Last Updated: January 8, 2025 Fact Checked

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  • Storing Tulip Bulbs
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  • How long can you store tulip bulbs?
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  • Benefits of Storing Bulbs
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  • FAQs
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  • Q&A
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This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 617,553 times.

Tulips are hearty flowers that bloom in full force in the springtime, but they often need to be stored during hot summers or too-warm or too-cold winters. Luckily, it’s easy to store tulip bulbs so they bloom successfully in spring. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to properly store tulip bulbs in the summer and winter. Plus, learn how long you can store tulip bulbs, the benefits of storing them, and answers to other common questions about the process.

How to Save Tulip Bulbs

Once the flower dies, cut off the flowering stems, then dig up the bulbs once the leaves turn yellow. Allow the bulbs to dry on a tray in a cool, dry place for about two days. Then, place them in a mesh bag or on a tray lined with peat and store them in a cool, dry area until you’re ready to replant them.

Steps

Section 1 of 4:

How to Store Tulip Bulbs

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  1. Step 1 Cut the blooms off the bulb once the flower dies. 1 Cut the blooms off the bulb once the flower dies. Once your flower has lost its flowers, use a pair of pruning shears to cut the flowering stem off the bulb. This helps prevent the bulb from using more energy than it needs to. Trim as close to the base of the bulb as you can.[1]
    • Keep the leaves on your tulips. These help store energy for the next season.
  2. Step 2 Dig up the bulbs once the leaves yellow and die. 2 Dig up the bulbs once the leaves yellow and die. Once the foliage has turned yellow and shriveled, use a garden shovel to loosen the soil around the bulb and pull it out of the ground. Shake off any excess soil, and dispose of any bulbs that appear diseased or damaged.[2]
    • It typically takes about 6 weeks for the foliage to yellow and die after the tulip’s blooming period. During this time, the bulb is gathering the energy it needs from the sun in order to bloom the following spring.
    • Do not overwater the bulbs as the leaves die. An occasional rain is okay, but the bulbs will start to rot if the soil is too wet.
    • Healthy tulip bulbs appear full and hard. If they’re soft, shriveled, or discolored, it’s time to discard them. If there are only small spots of rot, cut them off using a sharp, sterilized knife. Diluted bleach, rubbing alcohol, or white vinegar will work as a disinfectant.
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  3. Step 3 Clean the bulbs and let them dry for about 2 days. 3 Clean the bulbs and let them dry for about 2 days. Remove any leaves and roots from the bulb with a pair of pruning shears or sharp scissors, then wipe the outer layer of the bulbs with a dry paper towel. Place the bulbs on a tray and store them in a cool, dry place out of the sun for 2 days. A garage or shaded area outside will work best.[3]
    • The outer layer of the bulb may be dying if it is browned or shows signs of rot, so gently rub it with the paper towel in order to remove it.
    • If the bulbs are stored in the sun or in moist conditions, they will retain the moisture and begin to rot.
  4. Step 4 Place the bulbs in a mesh bag or in a box layered with peat. 4 Place the bulbs in a mesh bag or in a box layered with peat. A mesh bag allows air to flow to the bulbs while they are being stored. Alternatively, lay the bulbs flat on a tray or in a tote or box with layers of peat, dry sand, or vermiculite between them. This will help absorb moisture and prevent the bulbs from rotting during storage.[4]
    • It may also help to wrap individual bulbs with small pieces of newspaper. The newspaper helps store some moisture and helps keep the bulbs at a consistent temperature.
    • Rather than purchasing a new mesh bag, consider reusing an old onion bag.
  5. Step 5 Store the bulbs in a dark, dry place or in the fridge. 5 Store the bulbs in a dark, dry place or in the fridge. In general, a garage or cellar will work well, as long as the temperatures do not drop below freezing. If you live in a warm climate where temperatures do not drop below 50 °F (10 °C), chill the bulbs in the refrigerator instead. Keep them in the crisper drawer so the fridge light doesn’t shine on them. Try to keep the temperature around 40–50 °F (4–10 °C)[5]
    • Keep the bulbs away from light or they will start to grow prematurely.
    • Avoid storing tulip bulbs with apples or other fruits or vegetables, as they release ethylene gas that could kill the flower inside the bulb.
    • When stored properly, tulip bulbs can last for 12 months, but be sure to check for shriveled or moldy bulbs every 2 weeks. Remove damaged bulbs or moldy storage materials as soon as possible.
  6. Step 6 Alternatively, store potted tulips in a garage or shed for the winter. 6 Alternatively, store potted tulips in a garage or shed for the winter. Storing tulip bulbs in a refrigerator helps preserve them in both summer and winter, when the ground temperature may damage them. However, if you live in an area with very cold winters or somewhere the tulips will be exposed to repeated freezing and thawing, another option is to plant them in a pot in the fall. Store the potted plants in a sheltered area, like a garage or insulated shed, to protect them from the winter weather, then move them outside once the first shoots appear in the spring.[6]
    • Tulips typically need between 8-17 weeks of chill time around 40–50 °F (4–10 °C). If they do not receive this chill time, they won’t grow as tall.
    • If your winters aren’t too harsh, it isn’t always necessary to dig up tulip bulbs. Many thrive in the ground.
  7. Step 7 Plant the bulbs in the spring or fall. 7 Plant the bulbs in the spring or fall. If you stored your bulbs to protect them from the heat of summer, plant tulip bulbs 6-8 weeks before the first frost in the fall. If you stored your tulip bulbs over the winter, plant them in early spring so they still have time to bloom.[7]
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Section 2 of 4:

How long can you store tulip bulbs?

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  1. Tulip bulbs can generally be preserved for up to 12 months. Tulip bulbs can generally be preserved for up to 12 months. To ensure your bulbs last, keep them in a cool, dry environment that is well-ventilated. Many people choose to store the bulbs in a refrigerator to help maintain the proper temperature. If the bulbs aren’t stored correctly, they may rot before the 12 months are up.[8]
Section 3 of 4:

Benefits of Storing Tulip Bulbs

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  1. Storing tulip bulbs gives them a better chance of blooming in spring. Storing tulip bulbs gives them a better chance of blooming in spring. When you leave tulip bulbs in the ground, it exposes them to rodents and unpredictable winter temperatures, which could damage them. Tulips thrive in cool to cold winter temperatures and need a chilling period of 3 months, so storing them helps ensure they’ll bloom properly.[9]
    • It’s also a good idea to store your favorite heirloom varieties that may be difficult to get your hands on again.
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Section 4 of 4:

Storing Tulip Bulb FAQs

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  1. Step 1 Do tulip bulbs need to be refrigerated? 1 Do tulip bulbs need to be refrigerated? Tulip bulbs don’t necessarily have to be kept in a refrigerator, but doing so can help ensure they maintain their proper temperature while you’re storing them. However, make sure you don’t store them with anything that creates ethanol, like fruits and vegetables, as this will cause the bulbs to rot.[10]
    • It is sometimes difficult to maintain the proper level of humidity when refrigerating tulip bulbs. Storing them in a mesh bag allows for proper air circulation, but it can cause the bulbs to dry out. However, too much moisture from condensation can also lead to mold.
    • An alternative is to store them in a garage or any other cool, dry, and dark space. Just be sure to monitor the temperature to make sure the area doesn’t become too warm.
  2. Step 2 Can tulip bulbs go bad? 2 Can tulip bulbs go bad? Tulip bulbs can go bad if they’re stored improperly or for too long. Be sure to store your bulbs in a cool, dry area to avoid mold growth or damage from too-warm temperatures. If you notice any rotten or cracked bulbs, remove them immediately so the other bulbs don’t get damaged.[11]
  3. Step 3 How do you replant stored tulip bulbs? 3 How do you replant stored tulip bulbs? Plant stored tulip bulbs the same way you would fresh ones. First, examine the bulbs for any signs of mold or damage. If they look good, follow the same instructions you used when you originally planted the tulips to care for them.
  4. Step 4 Do you need to wash tulip bulbs before planting? 4 Do you need to wash tulip bulbs before planting? No, don't wash tulip bulbs before planting them, as the excess moisture can lead to fungal growth and rot. Instead, ensure that the bulbs are dry and free of any signs of mold or other damage before planting.[12]
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Community Q&A

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  • Question What do I do with the small bulbs around the original tulip bulb? Community Answer Community Answer Keep them! You can either plant them along with the larger bulbs or you can separate them and they will eventually grow to become their own larger bulbs that will flower. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 87
  • Question Are all bulbs stored like the tulip bulbs? Community Answer Community Answer No. They aren't. There is a difference between Tunicate bulbs (like tulips) and Imbricate bulbs (like lilies), Imbricate bulbs need to stay moist before planting. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 10 Helpful 51
  • Question When do I cut the leaves off the bulbs? Do I wait until the blooms drop off? Community Answer Community Answer Cut the stem when the flower dies. Cut the leaves when they die. While they are still green, they are nourishing the bulb. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 59
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Tips

  • Watch the weather to determine how long you should keep your bulbs in storage before replanting them.[13] Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
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Warnings

  • Don’t store tulip bulbs in a fridge that also has fruits like apples or pears. Many fruits emit a gas as they ripen that could damage your bulbs.[14] Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
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Things You’ll Need

  • Pruning shears
  • Paper towel
  • Tray
  • Mesh bag
  • Refrigerator or another cool, dark area

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References

  1. ↑ https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/types/bulbs/growing-guide
  2. ↑ https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/types/bulbs/growing-guide
  3. ↑ https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/storing-tender-bulbs-for-winter/
  4. ↑ https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/storing-tender-bulbs-for-winter/
  5. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/storing_and_saving_tender_plant_bulbs_during_winter
  6. ↑ https://www.finegardening.com/project-guides/container-gardening/how-to-plant-tulips-in-pots
  7. ↑ https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/all-about-tulips
  8. ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-store-tulip-bulbs-8697259
  9. ↑ https://nzbulbs.co.nz/media/ecom/factsheets/chillingtulips.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOoq1QNw9oTSv_o4uJb5nxdXR1AWfuHcTI3L8ahFIXiG77fuQ5C5B
More References (5)
  1. ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-store-tulip-bulbs-8697259
  2. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/storing_and_saving_tender_plant_bulbs_during_winter
  3. ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-store-tulip-bulbs-8697259
  4. ↑ https://www.mofga.org/resources/horticulture/fall-bulbs/
  5. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11903980

About This Article

Ben Barkan Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Professional Gardener This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This article has been viewed 617,553 times. 2 votes - 100% Co-authors: 12 Updated: January 8, 2025 Views: 617,553 Categories: Growing Flowers Article SummaryX

If you want to store tulip bulbs, cut the stem off of the bulbs once the flowers have died, but do not cut the leaves. Once the leaves die, about 6 weeks later, dig up the bulbs and pull off the dead leaves and roots. Wipe the outer layer of the bulbs with a dry paper towel to remove excess soil, then allow them to dry in a cool, dry place for 2 days. Wrap the bulbs individually in newspaper, then place them in a mesh bag and store them in a dark, dry place for up to 12 weeks. If you live in a warm climate, place them in the crisper drawer of your fridge. If you want to learn more from our Horticulturist co-author about how to replant tulip bulbs, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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    "I just bought a carton of special tulip bulbs to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday. Some tulips in the carton..." more Rated this article:
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Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Ben Barkan Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Professional Gardener Co-authors: 12 Updated: January 8, 2025 Views: 617,553 100% of readers found this article helpful. 2 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote Joan Newton

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"I just bought a carton of special tulip bulbs to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday. Some tulips in the carton..." more Rated this article: Myrna G. Holley

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