What to Do with a Gift Potted Tulip After Blooming

Not a Houseplant

Tulips are spring bulbs, not permanent indoor plants. Once the flower fades, the foliage will yellow and die back as the bulb enters dormancy.

Plant Outdoors for Future Blooms

Plant the bulb in the garden, 6 inches deep in full sun, after the last frost. Fertilize with bulb food or bone meal. The leaves will feed the bulb until early summer dormancy. It will rebloom next spring.

Indoor Limitations

Forced tulips rarely rebloom indoors. They require a cold period and outdoor conditions to rebuild energy. Enjoy the bloom, then transition it to the garden.