HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR CUT TULIPS

Tips for long-lasting beauty

There’s nothing quite like bringing a bunch of fresh tulips into your home. Their vibrant colours and elegant petals add a touch of spring to any room. But to keep your cut tulips looking their best for as long as possible, it’s important to take good care of them. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy their beauty for even longer!

1. TRIM THE STEMS

When you first bring your tulips home, trim the stems at a 45-degree angle under water. This helps to prevent air bubbles from forming in the stems, which can block water uptake and shorten the lifespan of your flowers. Use sharp scissors or a knife to make a clean cut, and be sure to cut at least an inch off the bottom.

2. PLACE THEM IN WATER

Tulips are thirsty flowers, so make sure to place them in a clean vase filled with fresh, cool water. Avoid using warm or hot water, as it can cause the flowers to wilt faster. It’s a good idea to change the water every two days to keep your tulips fresh and prevent bacterial growth. If the water starts to look cloudy, it’s definitely time for a change.

3. ADD FLOWER FOOD

Flower food provides essential nutrients to your tulips, helping them stay vibrant for longer. Simply dissolve the flower food in the water according to the instructions on the packet. If you don’t have flower food, you can make your own by adding a small amount of sugar and bleach to the water to help nourish the tulips and prevent bacteria growth.

4. KEEP THEM COOL

Tulips last longer in a cool environment, so keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources like radiators and electrical appliances. Ideally, place your tulips in a cool room with a steady temperature. Tulips also tend to open up fully in warmer temperatures, so keeping them in a cooler spot can help preserve their shape for longer.

5. SUPPORT THEIR STEMS

Tulips are naturally tall and have a tendency to droop as they grow. To help them stay upright, you can use flower supports or even a simple piece of string to tie the stems gently together. If you notice that your tulips are starting to lean over too much, you can cut the stems again at an angle, just like you did when you first brought them home, to help them absorb more water and regain their strength.

6. ENJOY THEIR NATURAL BEAUTY

One of the unique qualities of tulips is that they continue to grow after they’ve been cut. Over time, you may notice that the stems elongate, and the flowers may open even wider. Embrace this natural growth - it’s part of what makes tulips so charming!

7. REMOVE WILTING FLOWERS

As your tulips start to age, remove any wilting flowers to keep the bouquet looking fresh. This will also help prevent the spread of bacteria to the other flowers in the arrangement. 

By following these simple care tips, your tulips will brighten your home for as long as possible, bringing a little piece of spring into your space!