Autumn Tulip Planting Guide: When and How to Plant for Spring 2027

Tulips are the easiest way to guarantee a show of colour next spring, but timing matters. Plant too early and the bulbs are prone to rot in warm, wet soil; plant too late and they won’t root properly before the ground freezes.

When to plant tulip bulbs

The ideal window is late September through November, once soil temperatures have dropped below 10°C. Cooler autumns favour earlier planting; mild ones can push the window into early December without harm.

Choosing your varieties

For a classic cottage-garden look, Tulip 'Angelique' gives soft, peony-like double blooms in blush pink (buy from Thompson & Morgan →). If you want something with more contrast, Tulip 'Bella Blush' (buy from Thompson & Morgan →) pairs well in mixed borders alongside hardy orchids like our Bletilla and Dactylorhiza varieties, extending the flowering season from March through May.

Planting depth and spacing

Plant tulip bulbs at a depth of roughly three times their own height — typically 15-20cm — and space them 10-15cm apart. Good drainage is essential; on heavy clay, add horticultural grit to the planting hole.

Aftercare

Deadhead spent flowers but leave the foliage to die back naturally, feeding the bulb for next year. Bulbs from Thompson & Morgan are currently 12% off spring flowering bulbs with code TM_TAW435W, valid until 31 October 2026 — a good moment to stock up before the autumn planting window closes.