Bringing a Bit of Pella Home: Tulip Planting Tips from Thistles

Growing up in Pella, we know spring really starts when the tulips show up. Those first green shoots breaking through the soil are a sign that warmer days—and Tulip Time—are just around the corner. Around here, tulips aren’t just a pretty flower. They’re part of what makes our town unique.

At Thistles Flower Market, we’re proud to help keep that tradition going. That’s why we launched PellaTulipBulbs.com, where you can order high-quality bulbs sourced directly from Holland. Whether you’re sprucing up your front yard or starting a whole new garden bed, we’ve got the tulips to help bring a little Pella charm to your home.

When to Plant Tulips in Iowa

Tulips need to be planted in the fall—no exceptions. In Iowa, the best time is mid-October through early November, once soil temperatures drop below 55°F. This gives the bulbs time to develop strong roots before winter sets in.

If planted too early, the bulbs can sprout before frost hits, making them more likely to be damaged. If you wait too long, they may not get the head start they need. That fall window is key to strong spring blooms.

Choosing Tulip Varieties for Your Garden

Want your yard to feel like a mini version of Tulip Time? Start with the right varieties:

• Darwin Hybrids – These are tall, dependable tulips with large blooms. You’ll see them all over town during Tulip Time in classic colors like red, yellow, and pink.

• Triumph Tulips – With a clean, traditional tulip shape, they bloom mid-season—perfect timing for early May.

• Parrot & Double Tulips – If you’re going for bold and unique, these are great choices. Their ruffled petals and rich colors bring texture and interest to your beds.

Where (and How) to Plant Tulips

Want a display that holds its own next to Pella’s city gardens? Here are some basics:

• Go with rows or clusters – Rows give a clean, classic look; clusters feel more relaxed and natural. Either works—it just depends on your style.

• Sunlight matters – Tulips do best with at least six hours of direct sun per day.

• Well-draining soil is key – Tulips won’t thrive in soggy conditions. Mix in compost or sand if your soil holds too much moisture.

Planting tips:

• Dig 6 to 8 inches deep.

• Place bulbs pointy side up.

• Leave about 4 inches between bulbs.

• Water once after planting to help them settle in.

Make Your Tulips Last

Want a longer season of color—and a better chance of your bulbs coming back next year? Try this:

• Let the foliage die back naturally after the blooms fade. The leaves feed the bulbs for the following year.

• Mix early, mid, and late-blooming varieties to spread your blooms out from April through May.

• Know that in public displays, like Pella’s parks, tulips are replanted annually to keep the show looking its best. You can replant too—or let your garden evolve and see what comes back.

Looking for Garden Inspiration? Start in Pella.

If you’re dreaming of a spring garden full of color, there’s no better place to get inspired than right here in Pella. Stroll through town during Tulip Time or take a walk through the parks and neighborhoods in early May—you’ll see hundreds of varieties in bloom, each one showing off a different color, shape, or style.

Use what you see to spark ideas for your own space. Whether you love neat rows or overflowing garden beds, you can bring that same beauty home with bulbs from PellaTulipBulbs.com. And if you need help planning, choosing varieties, or picking the perfect combo, our team at Thistles Flower Market is always happy to help.

Come see what makes Pella bloom—and let it inspire your next garden project.