Tulips require planning. My neighbors (or the yard services they use) must have thought ahead, because I already see signs of tulip leaves in their flower beds. I missed last year's bulb planting, but this year I'm willing and ready. Here are ten tulips I want to plant in October. What's your favorite tulip?
Above: The 'Black Parrot' is famous for its rich purple color and frilled bloom; $16.95 for 12 bulbs at White Flower Farm. Photograph by Coanri/Rita via Flickr.
Above: The 'Persian Pearl' features a deep magenta rose petals with a yellow throat; $6.40 for ten from Brent and Becky's Bulbs.. Photo from Wild Ginger Farm.
Above: The 'Zurel' tulip features large white blooms striped with purple tones. A pack of 15 bulbs costs $6.98 at Lowe's. Photograph via BHG.
Above: The 'Angelique' Tulip has soft pink petals and resembles a peony bloom; $14.99 for 10 bulbs at Breck's. Image by Mimmi Elg, via Flickr. For more, see DIY: A Modern Tulip Garden.
Above: An early spring bloomer, 'Turkestanica' has white petals with an orange center; fragrant, and a great repeat bloomer; $4.30 for 10 bulbs from Brent and Becky's Bulbs. Photograph by Thomas Knox via Flickr.
Above: British gardening writer Sarah Raven grows 'Menton' tulip in her cutting garden; she uses it in spring bouquets. It's available via Brent and Becky's Bulbs; $3.70 for 5 bulbs. Photograph by Kendra Wilson.
For more, DIY: A Spring Bouquet With Sarah Raven.
Above: The 'Pink Impression' petals are pink with a light pink edge. It can be purchased from White Flower Farm; $11.95 for 12 bulbs. Photograph by Katrin Feldbauer via Flickr.
Above: 'Prinses Irene' is a fragrant tulip in orange with purple flames; $11.95 for a dozen bulbs from White Flower Farm. Photograph by Neal1960 via Flickr.
Above: The 'Tarde' has a yellow center and white tips; $2.23 for a pack of 5 bulbs from Tulip from Wooden Shoe Bulb Farm. Photo via BHG.
Above: 'Purissima' is a long lived, creamy white tulip; $16.25 for 25 bulbs from Brent and Becky's Bulbs .Photograph by Katrin Feldbauer via Flickr.
N.B.: Looking for tulip planting advice? Here is Gardenista's post on How To Create a Modern Tulip Garden.