Mondial Tulips Bulbs

Mondial is an ivory white tulip which when it first opens has a mild rib of pale yellow on its outer petal which fades with ages. It is classified as an Early Double Tulip which as a form first appeared in 1664. With large, wide open globular flowers they bear a striking resemblance to paeonies. They are able to retain their form for several weeks and show tolerance to adverse weather by only growing 30 and 40cm, with Mondial being an exception to this rule growing to 55cm. Thanks to this, much like the Early Single Tulips, the Early Doubles are good for beds and exposed positions and also suitable for Indoor culture and early forcing with Mondial being suitable from the last week of February.

Tulips will thrive in almost any type of soil where there is reasonable drainage. During the growing season they like plenty of moisture but the roots must not stand in water. Be careful not to feed tulips during the growing season as this will produce 'leggy' plants. Plant from October until late December 4 inches deep and approximately 5 to 6 inches apart.

Tulip failures are mostly due to damage by slugs and snails. Apply a slug repellant immediately after planting and repeat at monthly intervals until the plants stand well above the ground.

For indoor culture the best time to pot is September or October in fresh soil or loam mixed with sand or leaf mould. Do not use old potting material. Place the pots in a cool spot in the garden and cover with 15cm of clean soil, leave until top growth has attained 8-10cm. Transfer indoors and keep in the dark in a temperature not exceeding 60 degrees Fahrenheit. In a fortnight they made be removed to the light and the temperature slightly raised.