Tulip bulbs

Well, yesterday I comprehended why not to plant other things (like annuals or such) in the container you plant tulip bulbs. I upended 4 huge pots that I had planted with tulip bulbs. The pot that I watered all summer, as other things were growing, had 4 unrotted, viable bulbs. All the others had well over 60 each. I upended the pots to separate out the bulbs for refrigeration. So, how long should I cool them? I live in northern California - no frost. Also, many of the bulbs grew very small bulblets. I know to plant them nearer to the top of the container. Is there a mix anyone would recommend to grow these small bulbs into bloomers? I know to use bulb food when replanting. Advice would be great!

Old House Gardens has some good tips on keeping tulips going from year to year and about precooling. They recommend 8 weeks cooling period.
http://www.oldhousegardens.com/howToFall.asp

scrool down to 'Tulips can live forever' and I think you'll find the info you're looking for.

Very interesting advice in Old House Gardens. I didn't know tulips could be perennialized without a lot of work. Of course, it sounds like there was some work involved in their directions!

Daffodils have always been easier to grow from year to year for me. Tulips tend to fade out and go away ...Do you get a lot to come back, Gemini_sage?