If you cut the leaves and pull them up, they probably won't bloom again next Spring. The leaves are still photosynthesizing - converting the sun's energy into chemical energy and storing it underground in the bulb. It still needs water and sunlight until the leaves finally yellow and fall. Then you can dig them up.

sadly no, its not a good idea. as Bathgate says [like the new avatar by the way] the plant will still be making food for next years flower.
as for the tulips it is a bit early. once you disturb the roots they then struggle even if repotted to get enough water to photosynthesise and make enough food for next years flower. wait until the foliage starts to go yellow then dig down rather than pulling them. let the bulbs dry then store in paper/sawdust in a cool dark shed/garage until late summer early autumn then replant. or pot them up in compost and just don't water them until then.

Thanks. On holiday now for 2 weeks so that'll stop me itching to take off foliage. Challenge now to keep bedding alive as no rain forecast for ages up here in N Yorks.

Thanks Seaburngirl - gardenias

I wondered about the flowers in your new avatar, Paul: nice scent?

Hi Sheila, yes, very strong scent. You can smell them inside the house. It's like the most expensive perfume.

Paul - sounds heavenly - would you wear one in your buttonhole?

I have a plant in a pot outside that I THINK is a gardenia - hope it flowers soon!

Would I wear one? maybe at a wedding or some formal engagement. I hope your gardenia flowers for you. Do you know which variety you have. They are so rewarding when they bloom. In Florida, they grow everywhere.

We've invaded Barbarak's thread for too long . . . will send you a PM Bathgate!