Moscow begins autumn tulip planting ahead of May holiday blooms

Moscow's municipal services have begun planting tulips in city flower beds. City authorities said the bulbs need to take root before winter so the flowers can bloom for the May holidays.

The work takes place in October, before sustained freezing temperatures arrive. The varieties selected include yellow Strong Gold, deep red Apeldoorn, white Royal Virgin and pale pink Sugar Love tulips.

Workers are also covering the flower beds with coloured wood chips. City authorities say the chips help retain warmth and prevent excessive soil freezing, protecting the roots of perennial plants.