How to Plant Tulips: Simple Guide

October 9, 2025

Tulips are one of the most rewarding flowers you can grow — vibrant colors, easy care, and beautiful spring displays. Follow these simple steps to plant your bulbs this fall and enjoy a stunning show next spring.


When to Plant

Plant tulip bulbs in fall — usually late September through early November in Arkansas. You want soil temperatures to cool down below 60°F before planting.


What You’ll Need

  • Tulip bulbs (choose firm, healthy ones)
  • Garden trowel or bulb planter
  • Bone & blood meal (Hi-Yield or similar)
  • Compost or well-draining garden soil
  • Mulch (pine bark, straw, or shredded leaves)
  • Watering can or hose


Step-by-Step Instructions


Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

  • Tulips thrive in full sun — at least 6 hours per day — and well-drained soil.
  • Avoid areas where water pools after rain.


Step 2: Prepare the Soil

  • Loosen the soil about 8 inches deep where you plan to plant.
  • Mix in 1–2 inches of compost across the surface and work it into the top 6–8 inches of soil. This improves drainage and gives your bulbs a healthy growing environment.
  • Next, sprinkle Bone & Blood Meal into the area — about 1 tablespoon per bulb hole. Lightly mix it into the loosened soil (don’t let the bulb sit directly on top of the fertilizer).

Good soil prep is key — it helps bulbs form strong roots before winter.


Step 3: Plant the Bulbs

  • Dig each hole about 6–8 inches deep and 4–6 inches apart.
  • Place the bulb pointed end up and flat end down on the loosened, fertilized soil.
  • Backfill the hole with the amended soil and gently firm it down — just enough to remove air pockets, not pack it tight.


Step 4: Water Thoroughly

  • After planting, water deeply once to settle the soil. You won’t need to water again unless the weather is unusually dry.


Step 5: Add Mulch

  • When the soil cools (usually late October), spread 2–3 inches of mulch over the bed.

This keeps soil temperatures stable and prevents early sprouting during winter warm spells.


Spring Care

When tulip shoots appear in February or March, apply a top dressing of bulb fertilizer such as:

  • Hi-Yield Dutch Bulb Food (7-8-5)
  • Or a general 5-10-10 garden fertilizer

Lightly scratch it into the soil and water.
After flowering, remove faded blooms but leave the green leaves until they yellow — this allows the bulb to recharge for next year.


Pro Tip

If your tulips are in a rainy area or heavy clay soil, consider planting them in raised beds or adding sand to improve drainage — soggy bulbs can rot.


Enjoy the Show!

With the right soil, a little fertilizer, and some patience, your tulips will reward you with bright, cheerful blooms every spring.

How to Plant a Tree: A Simple Guide

By Master Account • August 28, 2025
Planting a tree is a rewarding way to enhance your landscape and support the environment. Follow these steps to ensure your tree thrives. What You’ll Need: A healthy tree from Sharum's Garden Center Shovel Compost (to enrich soil) Mulch (to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature) Root stimulator (to encourage strong root growth) Watering can or hose Measuring tape (optional, for spacing) Steps to Plant a Tree: Choose the Right Spot : Select a location with adequate sunlight and space for your tree’s mature size. Check for proper soil drainage and ensure that you avoid underground utilities. Dig the Hole : Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the tree’s root ball. Loosen the soil to help roots spread. Amend the Soil : Mix compost into the excavated soil (see instructions here: https://www.sharums.com/garden-center-bulk-bagged) to provide nutrients for healthy growth. Prepare the Tree : Gently remove the tree from its container. If roots are circling, tease them apart. If a ball and burlap tree, carefully remove any synthetic twine, burlap, or wire basket from the top third of the root ball, and ensure the root flare is visible and not buried. Plant the Tree : Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the ground. Backfill with the compost-soil mix, tamping lightly to remove air pockets. Water Thoroughly : Water the tree deeply to settle the soil. Add more soil if needed after watering. Apply a root stimulator solution (follow product instructions) to encourage strong root development. Apply Mulch : Spread a 2-inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it 2 inches from the trunk to prevent rot. Mulch helps retain moisture and protects roots. Care After Planting : Water regularly. Monitor for pests or stress and adjust care as needed. Pro Tip : Visit our garden center for quality compost, mulch, and root stimulator to give your tree the best start!