Ten weeks is recommended, but they can get by with as few as six weeks. Tulip Just about everybody recognizes and loves these spring favorites. They also look great inside your home while the January snows rage outside. It's not hard to force them if you remember a few special tips about their culture. The first difference is in potting.
Tulip bulbs are asymmetrical - one side is slightly flattened.
This flat side is where the largest leaf comes out. So put this edge facing the outside of the pot. Also, make sure you have excellent air circulation around tulip containers. This helps them fight off virus diseases. Tulips need a long 16-week chilling time for peak forcing performance.