How To: Make Your Fresh Cut Tulips Last Longer

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."

Martha Stewart says, "The sweeping bow of the tulip may be one of its most alluring charms, but it presents a challenge to the flower arranger." I admit these bandits can confuse beginning floral designers. They did me, at least. But they are fun and rewarding to arrange whether in a tight bunch or loose design with room for movement. Here's how to make them last longer. 

Tips to Keep Those Tulips Looking Good

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.