Troubleshooting
Blue Tulp problems — and how to fix them
Blue Tulp (Moraea polystachya) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Corm rot in wet summers
The corms must remain dry during summer dormancy; in high-rainfall climates, lift corms after foliage dies back, dry them thoroughly, and store in paper bags in a cool shed until replanting in late summer.
Frost damage to emerging autumn growth
New shoots appear in early autumn and are vulnerable to early frosts; grow against a south-facing wall or under cold-frame glass in USDA zones 8 and below, and mulch corms in situ in marginal areas.
Prevent blue tulp problems before they start
Most blue tulp issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Blue Tulp problems — FAQ
Why is my blue tulp corm rot in wet summers?
The corms must remain dry during summer dormancy; in high-rainfall climates, lift corms after foliage dies back, dry them thoroughly, and store in paper bags in a cool shed until replanting in late summer.
Why is my blue tulp frost damage to emerging autumn growth?
New shoots appear in early autumn and are vulnerable to early frosts; grow against a south-facing wall or under cold-frame glass in USDA zones 8 and below, and mulch corms in situ in marginal areas.