The tulip flower has faded, the plant leaves look a little ragged, and after the show they just put on, I want to make sure they will put on their spectacular blooms next year, so what is the best way to insure more great blooms next spring? A great question about a great plant!  First of all, tulips do not have to be dug up when they are finished blooming.

The bulbs will do quite well in the soil, as long as you do not water them. After the petals fall, cut the stem at the base so the plant will not seed. The energy from the leaves will then be put back into the bulb for next springs growth. Leave the leaves alone and do not cut them off until they fade and turn yellow. After the leaves have turned yellow and brown, prune the vegetation down to the dirt. You may tempted to water them during the hot summer months, but too much moisture may cause the bulb to rot.

Tulip bulbs will keep producing for several years with good care. Plan on replacing the ones that die every 3 to 5 years to keep your tulip bed looking sharp.