Because they sprout and bloom early in the spring, tulips can work well beneath trees and shrubs that will leaf out to create shady conditions later in the season. Plant the bulbs 4 to 8 inches deep in the fall (a depth about three times the size of the bulbs) in a sunny location with well-drained soil.

Tulips prefer a site with full or afternoon sun. In Zones 7 and 8, choose a shady site or one with morning sun only, as tulips don’t like a lot of heat. The soil must be well-draining, neutral to slightly acidic, fertile, and dry or sandy. All tulips dislike areas with excessive moisture.

Select a bright and sunny spot in your garden to plant tulips. They will grow best in garden beds or under trees. Ensure that the flower bed is well-drained and fertile. If you are from zones 8 and 9, choose a shady location or one with the morning sun to plant tulips.