Monte Orange Tulips Bulbs

Monte Orange is an striking orange Early Double Tulip which is quite unusual. The double tulips first appeared in 1664. Their large globular flowers which open wide means they bear a striking resemblance to paeonies. As they retain their form for several weeks and show tolerance to adverse weather and only growing only 30 and 40cm (Monte Orange growing to 30cm), 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 Monte Orange being suitable from the second 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.

Note: If you are using one of the many available bulb planters be sure that the soil in the whole planting area is well worked to prevent any sitting water at the bottom of the hole made by the planter.

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.