When Should I Start To Force Tulip Bulbs That I Want To Bloom Near Christmas?

Question

I was given a vase of tulips one year as a Christmas gift. The bulbs were in water. It was bright and cheery in Jan. I would like to try this next Christmas for gifts. What month do you recommended I start the refrigeration process so the vase bloom in early Jan?

Answer 1

This article says you need to chill the bulbs at least three months, then you need about 5 more weeks after that to bloom. So I would start chilling in late July.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/tulips/forcing-tulip-bulbs.htm