Do you want spring tulips to be one of the first to bloom in the area, even before the neighbors even begin to loosen the ground? The secret to the early awakening of the bulbs lies in their proper wintering. Instead of expensive covering materials, you can use onion peels, which not only warm but also protect the plantings.
Onion peels create an air layer that works on the principle of a thermos: it retains the heat of the earth, preventing it from quickly freezing. In addition, it contains phytoncides and essential oils that repel pests (wireworms, nematodes) overwintering in the soil and suppress the development of fungal infections.
How to properly cover tulips:
Timing and preparation
After the first steady frost, when the ground freezes slightly (usually the end of October or November), the bed with the planted bulbs is loosened and slightly moistened.
Forming a “blanket”
Dry onion peels are scattered over the bed in a thick layer (5–7 cm). It is important that the husk is dry, without signs of mold.
Fixing the shelter
The husks are pressed on top with spruce branches or branches so that they are not blown away by the wind. This also helps trap snow.
What does it give:
- The soil freezes more slowly, and the bulbs do not waste energy fighting stress;
- In spring, the ground under the husk warms up faster;
- Shoots appear 10–14 days earlier than usual;
- Peduncles are formed stronger and flowers are larger.
This method is especially good for regions with late and long spring.
