How much water does the soil of planted tulip bulbs need before they sprout?

Three weeks ago I have planted tulip bulbs in big earthen pots on my terrace. Should they be kept dry, moist or well-watered to make them sprout? I have heard that tulip bulbs rot easily. Does anybody have any experience with tulips in pots?

I live in a frost-free climate where the minimum winter temperature in December drops to +3 degrees at night and +15 degrees during the day. In this climate tulips flower usually in January when it starts warming up again.

How much water does the soil of planted tulip bulbs need before they sprout?
The problem here may be that they didn't get their "overwinter." In most southern climates, certain bulbs, like daffodils, tulips, hyacinth, etc., need to be artificially wintered in a cold refrigerator or moderate freezer. If the bulb wasn't properly dormant, it may not come out.



The soil, though, should be moist but not wet. Tulips are prone to rotting in the ground if they get too wet. If the pot does not have holes in the bottom, just drill about 4 1/4-inch holes. Or use clay - which breathes better. But tulips thrive in pots because they have inherent drainage (provided there are holes in the pot.)



Also - I tend to recommend bigger bulbs. Spend a little more for better-quality bulbs. You may spend an extra dollar on the bulb, but the results will be worth it in the end.

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