Tulip bulbs should be planted in mid to late fall. They then develop roots before going dormant until early spring. Leaves may begin emerging from the soil as early as February and as late as May.
The first thing you will see is the tips of the pointed leaves. Tulip foliage is cold hardy and not harmed by snow or freezing temperatures. The flower buds will not appear until the leaves are about 20 cm tall. As the plant continues to grow, the stems will get taller and the buds will gradually get larger and eventually begin to show color. It will take 4-5 weeks for tulips to bloom from when you see the tips of the leaves.