The Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs are extra-large bulbs of Darwin hybrid tulips in mixed shades, including red, orange, pink and yellow. Darwin hybrids form large, lush cups on sturdy, upright stems and grow to around 50 to 60 centimetres tall.

At size 11/12, these bulbs are one size larger than those of our regular Darwin Hybrid mix. A larger bulb has more food reserves, and you can see that in bigger flowers, thicker stems and reliable flowering, even in the first year. That is why they look their best where you see them up close: in pots on the patio, in the border near the house and as cut flowers. With 15 bulbs you fill a pot of about 40 centimetres, with 30 bulbs a striking group in the border. With 60 or 120 bulbs you create a bed of one to two square metres; allow 50 to 70 bulbs per square metre. Combine them with other tulip bulbs, for example a single-coloured variety in one of the shades from the mix. You will find more greenery for outdoors among our outdoor plants.

When should you plant the Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs?

The best time to plant the Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs is between mid-October and the end of November. If the soil is below 10 °C by then, the bulbs first make roots and wait until spring to sprout. In mild weather without frost you can still plant in December. Winter cold is needed for flowering, so do not wait until spring.

When do the Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs flower?

The Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs flower in April and May. The large cups stay beautiful for two to three weeks. In a pot against a warm wall they often flower a little earlier, after a cold spring a bit later. Darwin hybrids are known for returning for a number of years, especially if you let the foliage die back after flowering.

Care and tips Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs

Plant the bulbs about 15 centimetres deep, which for this large size is roughly three times the bulb height, and keep 10 to 12 centimetres between them. A loose, free-draining soil prevents rot; in heavy soil, mix some sand into the earth. For a pot, choose a roomy, deep model with a drainage hole and a layer of gravel at the bottom; have a look at our outdoor pots and baskets. After flowering, remove the seed pod and let the foliage turn yellow. Give a handful of bulb fertiliser in early spring.

Water needs of the Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs

The bulbs need little water as long as they are in open ground; natural rainfall is usually enough. After planting in a dry autumn, water once. In pots, where the compost dries out faster, water about once a week in spring from the moment the leaves appear. Never leave the pot standing in a saucer of water.

Light needs of the Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs

Sun matters for these tulips: give them a spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight. The sturdy stems then stay straight and the flowers show their full colour. Partial shade is possible, but they flower less exuberantly and the stems bend towards the light.

Are the Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs toxic?

The Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs are mildly toxic if ingested, the bulb in particular. Plant and store them out of reach of pets and young children. Wear gloves when planting and cutting, as the sap can irritate sensitive skin.

How will my Tulip bulbs Darwin Hybrid mix XL bulbs be shipped?

Your bulbs are carefully packed and shipped. That way they arrive safely and fresh from the grower.