Question
Hi, I have a question about tulips. I am building a raised flower bed in a location that already houses quite a few tulips. They are between 3 and 4 years old and bloomed nicely this year. I know you need to wait for tulip foliage to turn yellow and die off before you lift the bulbs. If they're already getting fairly old for tulips, is it worth the wait and effort of lifting them when they're probably close to the end of their life span? I live in western Colorado. Thank you!

Answer
Hi Julie,
Generally, hybrid tulips last about 5 or 6 years in what I call the mid-climates of the U.S. (Zones 5-7).  For me?  I'd dig 'em up just because I've had the tulips last longer than that although not all of them.  I still have some tulips in my front yard that bloomed this year going on 9 and 10 years old.  It's really up to you.  It sounds to me like you want to start anew, so, start anew.  I don't think the effort would be worth it for you and I'd just go ahead and get started on the new bed.  I hope this helps.
Tom