Plant the bulbs in mid- to late fall for blooms in spring. Set the bulbs in the ground with the flat or root side down. They should be planted 4-5 inches deep, or 8 inches deep for taller varieties. If rodents are a problem, try planting them up to 3 inches deeper, but expect the shoots to take a little longer to appear. Space tulips about 6 inches apart. Rich soil, well amended with compost and containing enough sand for good drainage is required. This good soil should be available well below the bulb so that the extending roots will find good drainage and adequate nourishment. Avoid fresh or only partly decomposed manure. Bone meal scattered at the rate of one cup per square yard is a good source of nourishment. Side dress when shoots are 1 to 2 inches tall.