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Planted too deep? #926658

Asked March 24, 2026, 1:37 PM EDT

I received these tulips last summer. Did I plant them too deep?

Arapahoe County Colorado

Expert Response

Gini,

Thank you for your question and for sending a photo. 

I don't think the foliage in the picture is a result of the tulip bulbs being planted too deep. The species of tulip bulb you planted may have different looking foliage. Species of "naturalizing" tulips will have thin foliage. If you planted a hybrid tulip, the first season after planting the bulbs the plants may be smaller. Please see the following link, there is a good picture of a thin-leaved tulip:
https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/annuals-perennials/1010-bulbs-maintaining/

I hope you will find this information helpful. 

Debbie M.
Master Gardener Volunteer
Arapahoe County Extension
An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 25, 2026, 2:15 PM EDT

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