We plant tulip in November, here is why you should too!
It’s November in Toronto — the air is crisp, the leaves have turned, and it feels like gardening season is behind us, especially with all the snow this year.
If you’ve been meaning to get those bulbs in the ground but time slipped away, you’re not too late. In fact, November can be an ideal time to plant tulips — as long as the ground isn’t frozen solid.
Why Do We Plant Tulips in Early November?
Squirrels, squirrels, squirrels! They spend a lot of time and energy collecting and burying nuts to survive through the winter. If you plant your bulbs too early, they will probably get dug up unless you protect them with chickenwire or pavers. By November, the squirrels are mostly done and won't really bother your bulbs.
With climate change, November can be unseasonably warm sometimes. Tulips need a cold period to form strong roots and bloom beautifully in spring. Planting late in the fall — when soil temperatures are cool but workable — helps prevent early sprouting and gives bulbs the dormancy they need.
Reduce the spread of tulip fire! Botrytis tulipae can be a pernicious fungus that decimates your tulip garden. Planting in the cold will reduce its spread.
How to Plant Tulip Bulbs in the Garden
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Choose a sunny spot with good drainage. Tulips love full sun and dislike soggy soil.
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Dig your holes 6–8 inches deep, plant in clumps (odd numbers are best), and space the bulbs about 4 inches apart.
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Plant pointy side up. That’s where the stem and flower will emerge.
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Water well after planting and mulch lightly with leaves.
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Interplanting with daffodils, alliums, or hyacinths can also deter squirrels.
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If container planting. Look for a large enough pot with a drainage hole and repeat the steps above. These tulip planters need to stay outdoors all winter long to put on a show in the spring.
In Toronto, you can usually plant tulip bulbs right up until mid- to late November, depending on the weather. If you can still dig about 6 inches down, you’re good to go.
Looking Ahead
Come April or May, you’ll be glad you braved the chill to get those bulbs in. A burst of tulips in spring is a reward worth the cold fingers and muddy boots. So bundle up, grab your trowel, and give your garden a little gift for next year!
Pro-tip: Once you see leaf growth, regular watering can promote longer stems. Set out a dish of water for thirsty squirrels that like to behead tulip buds for water.
