After tulips have put on their dazzling spring show, many gardeners wonder what to do next. Can you save the bulbs and replant them? The answer is yes—with the right storage, your tulip bulbs can bloom again next year. This guide walks you through how to properly care for tulip bulbs after blooming and how to store them for future planting.

Step 1: Let the Foliage Die Back Naturally

After your tulips bloom, resist the urge to cut back the leaves. The green foliage continues to photosynthesize, feeding the bulb and preparing it for dormancy. Only remove the leaves once they turn yellow and wither.

Step 2: Dig Up the Bulbs (If Needed)

In warmer climates or where tulips are treated as annuals, it’s best to dig up the bulbs once the foliage has died. Use a small shovel or garden fork to gently lift the bulbs from the soil.

Step 3: Clean and Inspect the Bulbs

Brush off excess soil, but do not wash the bulbs with water. Inspect each one and discard any that are soft, moldy, or damaged. Allow them to dry for a few days in a shady, well-ventilated area.

Step 4: Store the Bulbs Properly

• Place the bulbs in a mesh bag, paper bag, or cardboard box—something that allows air circulation.
• Store them in a cool, dry, and dark place such as a basement, garage, or closet.
• The ideal storage temperature is between 50–60°F (10–15°C).

Step 5: Label and Keep an Eye on Them

Label your bulbs by color or variety if needed. Check on them every few weeks during storage and remove any bulbs that begin to rot or mold.

Step 6: Replant in the Fall

When autumn returns and soil temperatures cool, it’s time to replant your stored tulip bulbs. Follow standard planting practices: full sun, well-drained soil, and 6–8 inches deep with the pointy end up.

With proper post-bloom care and storage, you can give your tulip bulbs a second life—and enjoy their colorful blooms again next spring. Whether you’re saving special varieties or simply love a sustainable approach to gardening, storing tulip bulbs is a smart and simple process.