You can also keep bulbs cool in the summer by overplanting them with large-leaved perennials. An extra bonus of using large-leaved companions is that their emerging foliage helps hide the withering greenery of the tulips. In addition to a home in cool, well-drained soil, tulip bulbs benefit from a fall feeding. I spread a fertilizer high in bone meal on the soil after the bulbs have been planted. Then, I use a cultivator to work it in to the top few inches of soil.
Adequate moisture is also important, especially for newly planted bulbs.
If you don't get at least an inch or so of rain within a week of planting, water the bulbs in well. They should have at least an inch of water to give them a good start. A period of cold during winter is essential for tulips. Tulip bulbs require 3 to 4 months of cold dormancy, at 45 F or less, in order to flower. In the deep South, tulip bulbs may need winter refrigeration.