Double Tulips: Create Springtime Drama

Tulips are the "lipsticks of the garden"—elegant finishing touches. Double-flowered varieties resemble peonies with long-lasting, semidouble to double blooms. Many flower in May after other tulips fade. Hardy to Zone 3, excellent for beds, cutting, and some for forcing.

Planting for Impact

• Avoid "soldier effect"—plant in natural clusters, 5–6" apart.
• Well-drained soil, pH 6.0–6.5, sandy enriched with organic matter ideal.
• Full sun (6+ hours). Keep bulbs cool (<65°F) until planting.
• Plant at least a month before ground freezes. Water in well.

Design Ideas

• Splashes in perennial borders, near entrances, or massed in prominent beds.
• Feature fragrant 'Orca' where scent is enjoyed.
• Combine varieties: Touch of Perfume or May Romance collections.
• 10–14" varieties work at border fronts.

Perfect Partners

Double tulips shine with spring bloomers—especially peonies. Underplant pastels with forget-me-nots for classic combo. Plant among epimedium or vinca groundcovers. Plant abundantly for arrangements.

Longevity Note

Many tulips (especially mid/late season) bloom magnificently 1–2 years then decline. Species, Darwin hybrids, fosterianas, greigiis, kaufmannianas, and WFF Perennial Tulips return for years with care.