2026 Spring bulb trends: tulips are back

Bulb planting season is well underway, and we wanted to get the low down on what is trending in spring bulbs this year. We reached out to Casey Harrison, Sales and Marketing Manager at Fiesta Bulbs, for their take on what they’re seeing across the spring bulb category. One clear theme stood out: tulips are having a big moment.

More tulip varieties are coming through

Casey says they have "a lot of new varieties" landing this season, after tulips being harder to secure in New Zealand when a key grower left the market. Fiesta Bulbs has secured a strong range from other growers, meaning home gardeners can look forward to plenty of choice.

Softer colours are having a moment

Tulips will always be a spring staple, said Casey and one clear trend is growing demand for more subtle tones – think soft pinks, lavenders, and two-tone blooms. But he’s clear the bold favourites aren’t going anywhere: "These popular varieties are available in the single bloom, doubles, frilled and parrot types that add texture and drama in the garden."

A big shift: bulbs grown for cutting, not just garden display

One of the biggest changes Casey is seeing is gardeners planting bulbs specifically for cutting.

"A key shift in the market is planting bulbs not just for garden display, but specifically for cutting. More gardeners seem to be growing tulips as a seasonal cut flower crop, creating home-grown bouquets throughout spring. Many of our varieties are the same styles used internationally in the commercial cut tulip market, offering strong stems, excellent vase life and standout colour impact."

Fiesta Bulbs’ standout new varieties to look out for this year 

Fiesta Bulbs Argos Tulip

Argos

A soft pink fading to white.

Fiesta Bulbs Ivanka Tulip

Ivanka

A bold darker pink, and a very nice cut flower.

Fiesta Bulbs Triple A Tulip

Triple A

If you’re keen on large blooms on very strong stems.

Fiesta Bulbs Kickstart Tulip

Kickstart

A new soft-toned, lavender double tulip.

When are they available?

Casey says: "All varieties will be landing as the final release of the season this month (March) and tulips, I think, will always remain the ultimate spring statement – in the garden and in the vase!"

Quick tulip planting checklist (NZ)

  • Plant into free-draining soil or bulb mix (like Daltons Premium Bulb Mix), especially for pots and containers.
  • Choose a bright spot and avoid waterlogged areas so bulbs don’t rot.
  • Start feeding when green shoots appear with Daltons Premium Bulb Fertiliser to support stronger growth and better blooms.
  • Plant in blocks if you want cut flowers (rather than single rows) so you can pick stems easily and still keep a good garden display.
  • Pick tulips when buds show colour but are still tight for the best vase life.
     

For more advice:  READ OUR HOW TO GROW BULBS GUIDE

Products to Try

Daltons Premium Bulb Mix
Garden Time™ Compost
Daltons Premium Bulb Fertiliser

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