Tulip Care Guide
Tulips are among the most beloved spring flowers, known for their vibrant colours, elegant stems, and timeless charm. From rich reds and sunshine yellows to soft pastels and even dramatic purples, tulips have a way of brightening any room. But while they’re beautiful, they can also be a bit tricky to care for if you don’t know the secrets to keeping them fresh. Here’s a guide, from an experienced florist’s perspective, on how to care for tulips and enjoy their beauty for as long as possible.
- Choose Wisely: Selecting the Best Tulips. The longevity of your tulips starts with how you select them. When buying tulips, look for buds that are still closed but show a hint of their colour. Avoid flowers with wilting leaves or slimy stems, as these are signs of aging blooms.
PRO TIP: Tulips continue to grow after being cut, so choosing those with tight buds ensures you’ll enjoy their full bloom at home.
- Prep Your Stems Like a Pro: Before placing tulips in water, give the stems a clean, diagonal cut at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water absorption. Avoid using blunt scissors, as crushed stems impede water uptake.
FLORISTS TRICK: Pierce a small hole with a pin just below the flower head. This releases trapped air and helps the stems stay upright longer.
- Vase Choice Matters: Tulips are notorious for bending and reaching toward the light. To counteract this, opt for a tall, supportive vase. Fill it with just a few inches of cold water—tulips don’t need a deep drink like some flowers.
EXTRA TIPS: For a modern, minimalist look, place a few stems in slim, individual bud vases.
- Keep Them Cool: Tulips thrive in cooler temperatures. Keep the vase in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight, radiators, and drafts.
DID YOU KNOW: Placing a few ice cubes in the water can help extend their vase life.
- Water Wisdom: Tulips are thirsty flowers, so check the water level daily. Change the water every two to three days and clean the vase to prevent bacteria from building up.
BONUS HACK: Add a teaspoon of sugar to the water for nutrients, and a drop of bleach to keep the water clear.
- Support your stems: If your tulips start to droop, wrap them in newspaper and stand them upright in cold water for an hour. This helps straighten them out.
FLORIST INSIGHT: Tulips continue growing even after being cut, sometimes up to an inch or more.
Styling Tulips in Bouquets
When arranging tulips in a bouquet, consider pairing them with complementary blooms like ranunculus, hyacinths, or roses. For a spring-inspired display, combine pastel tulips with fresh greenery such as eucalyptus or ruscus.
Design Tip: Tulips naturally move toward light, which can create dynamic, organic shapes in your arrangements.
Enjoy the Beauty of Tulips
Tulips may have a reputation for being fleeting, but with the right care, you can enjoy their cheerful presence for much longer. Their quirky stems, vivid petals, and springtime charm make them a floral favourite year after year.
Browse our selection of fresh tulips at FlowerSuppliers and bring a burst of spring into your home today.
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