Tulips are best treated as annuals in our region. Bulbs purchased in the fall should be placed in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 weeks before planting to provide the pre-chilling that they require. Remove and discard the bulbs after they finish flowering in the spring. Tulips do not keep their leaves long enough here to store needed energy for good re-blooming due to our early summer heat. Our winter season does not provide enough consistent chilling for them either. The strong splash of color they offer to the Spring garden make them well worth the extra effort they require.