Tulip bulbs play a significant role in the fascinating world of tulip cultivation, and they are a key element in the iconic Dutch tulip industry. See more images and video of tulips and tulip bulbs in our tulip collection

The tulip season starts kickstarts with National Tulip Day, when the heart of Amsterdam transforms into a floral wonderland as thousands gather to pick their own tulips.

Here are some key points about tulip bulbs:

1. Cultivation and Growth: Tulips grow from bulbs, which are underground storage organs. The tulip bulb contains the necessary nutrients and energy to support the plant’s growth and flowering. Tulip bulbs are typically planted in the fall, allowing them to undergo a period of winter chilling that is crucial for their development.
2. Varieties: There are numerous tulip varieties, each with its own unique colors, shapes, and characteristics. From classic single-flowered tulips to exotic and fringed varieties, tulip bulbs are available in a wide range of options, contributing to the diversity of tulip displays.
3. Planting Season: Tulip bulbs are generally planted in the fall, preferably a few weeks before the ground freezes. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter sets in. The cold winter period is essential for breaking dormancy, triggering the tulips to bloom in spring.
4. Spring Blooms: Tulip bulbs are known for producing stunning blooms in the spring, bringing vibrant colors to gardens, parks, and landscapes. The timing and duration of the blooming season depend on the tulip variety and local climate conditions.
5. Propagation: Tulips can be propagated by dividing bulbs, offset bulblets, or through seeds. However, the majority of tulips are commercially grown from bulbs. The bulbs produced by tulip plants are harvested after the flowers have withered and the foliage has yellowed.
6. Economic Importance: Tulip bulbs are not only valued for their aesthetic appeal but also have economic significance. The Netherlands, in particular, is renowned for its tulip industry, and Dutch tulip bulbs are exported globally. The tulip trade has a rich history, including the famous “tulip mania” period in the 17th century.
7. Lifecycle: Tulip bulbs go through a natural lifecycle, and after a few years of blooming, they may become less productive. Gardeners often lift and divide bulbs, replanting them to ensure continued vigor and a beautiful display of tulips each spring.

Whether as a symbol of spring or a focal point in gardens, tulip bulbs contribute to the beauty and cultural heritage associated with tulips, especially in regions like the Netherlands.