lifting tulip bulbs

[ChrisJB]

Dear folks,

Why is it advantageous to lift tulip bulbs when they have died back?

I never do it, and they still flower year after year. Despite this, should I be doing it anyway?

Regards, Chris

[mrs fish]

They can sometimes can get eaten by mice or rot in the ground, I had several black tulips disappear in fact most of my tulips disappear

[paulchandler6]

Originally Posted by mrs fish

They can sometimes can get eaten by mice or rot in the ground, I had several black tulips disappear in fact most of my tulips disappear

Would this also apply to other bulbous flowers such as Daffs as well. As I never lift them either?

Paul

[Cotham Marble]

Originally Posted by ChrisJB

Dear folks,

Why is it advantageous to lift tulip bulbs when they have died back?

I never do it, and they still flower year after year. Despite this, should I be doing it anyway?Regards, Chris

If they are doing what you want them to - stick with what works. The main reason for lifting bulbs (other than to protect them from being eaten), is to protect them from rot in the dormant season. Most bulbs will 'naturalise' and produce offsets, over time these can become overly dense and be in competition for nutrients, leading to a failure to flower, so lifting and replanting may eventually be required.

CM

[mrs fish]

Yes if you leave them and they don't die they will reproduce

[ChrisJB]

Thanks folks. I'll leave them then.

Regards, Chris

[naturelover]

i have lots of lilly bulbs in big pots, i have let them die back then cut all the dead off,i have put them in the greenhouse under the stageing have i done right,do they need water as i have never had lillies befor.?

[Cotham Marble]

Originally Posted by naturelover

i have lots of lilly bulbs in big pots, i have let them die back then cut all the dead off,i have put them in the greenhouse under the stageing have i done right,do they need water as i have never had lillies befor.?

When you say lilies - do mean they are species of Lilium ? Even if they are Lilium you may need to research what your particular species needs. However as general guide - there's a good chance what you have will make new leaf from the end of summer, so providing water will be necessary. So long as the bulbs are not overcrowded you will probably get away with a second year, though you might find it beneficial to add 5cm of new soil to the top of each pot. You may also need to protect the pots from the harshest frosts - use bubble wrap or something similar. After the second flowering, either plant out in the garden or repot with fresh (PEAT FREE) compost.

CM