Spring Heat: Tulip & Pansy Combo Thrives in Denver's Unpredictable Weather

In a Denver front yard, a brick-framed planter bursts with purple and orange in May—'Orange Jimmy' and deep purple 'Negrita' tulips mixed with three pansies: 'Hardy Boy Orange', multicolored 'Jolly Joker', and 'Rockies Purple'. Designed by Jessi McVay and Skye Mason of Garden Gals.

Planting Strategy for Erratic Springs

• Exposure: South or west for maximum sun.
• Bulb depth: 8–12 in. deep so bulbs aren't tricked into early growth by warm spells.
• Overplant: Pansies go in above tulips.
• Feed: Slow-release granular fertilizer at planting.
• Water: 2–3 times/month during dry spells (typically Jan–Feb).

"The commitment pays off with a great display that lasts into June," says McVay.