Tulips must be the most mischievous of all their blooming friends. You shouldn't have an ounce of distrust if the straight tulips you arranged yesterday are leaning, stretching, pointing and drooping today. They haven't gone bad and they're not wilting. They're doing their thing!
There is good reason tulips bob and weave and shuffle and dance around the vase. Guess what? These personality filled flowers keep growing after being cut. Tulips grow toward the light. According to Olivia Heath of House Beautiful Magazine, "
Tulips are really responsive to sunlight and that’s why they move. They’re turning themselves towards the light sources around them, hoping to be seen by pollinators. You might also spot them opening up on sunny days and closing up at night time."
In my experience tulips last about 7 days from opening. For the longest vase life:
Buy tulips with flower heads that are just starting to open. The bud should be a little closed. If they're still green leave them 'lone.
Before you arrange tulips, trim the stem with sharp snips.
Leave the flower food behind for tulips.
Tulips are thirsty so check the water level every day.
Tulips are the coolest... loving cool rooms and ice cubes in the water.
Avoid heat from electronics, direct sun, lamps
Choose a vase that is tall. I recommend one that's at least half as tall as the stem.
If this has you feeling artistic and wanting to create a tulip masterpiece try the vintage-style Tulip Clay Vase. It's great for all flowers but tulips can are breathtaking... show stopping like you can't believe in this container. Take lots of pictures! Share them with us by tagging @colonialhouseofflowers on Instagram and Facebook.
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