How To Make Cut Tulips Last Longer?

A lot of people really enjoy having fresh cut flowers around their homes. It's nice to be able to bring a bit of beauty from the outdoors indoors. However, one struggle some face is getting their cut flowers to last very long before they start looking tired and droopy. Tulips are a popular flower to receive as a gift or pick yourself from the garden. But it seems like no matter what you do, tulips always seem to wilt really fast after being cut. Well, we are here to share that it doesn't have to be that way. There are actually some simple things you can do to help your tulip flower arrangement stay fresher, perkier, and last much longer than you might expect.

Tip 1: Cut Tulip Stems Under Water

One of the most important things in tulip flower care you can do is cut the stems of your tulips under water. This helps prevent air bubbles from forming in the stems which can block the uptake of water. To do this, place about an inch of water in a vase or container. Then use pruners or scissors to cut each tulip stem below the lowest set of leaves, submerging the cut end under water as you work.

Tip 2: Remove Extra Flowers or Foliage

While tulips look pretty with their full bouquet of blooms, removing any excess or fading flowers can help the healthy flowers last longer. You should also take off any foliage that will be under water. This removes molecules from the stem that use up energy and nutrients meant for the flowers. Cut off any blooms or foliage that seem to be dying off first.

Tip 3: Re-Cut Stems on an Angle

After cutting the tulip stems initially under water, you will want to re-cut them at an angle each day. This allows the stems to continually take up water. Simply slice about 1⁄2 inch off the bottom of each stem at a slight diagonal angle. Be sure to submerge the stem end in water as you cut to prevent air bubbles. Re-cutting daily will extend your tulips’ vase life by around 2-3 days each time.

Tip 4: Change the Water Regularly

To avoid bacterial growth that can clog the stems, it is important to change the water in your tulip vase regularly. Most Collierville florists recommend changing it every other day. Some people find changing it daily is best to keep the water as fresh as possible. Be sure to wash the vase thoroughly with warm water before refilling. This removes any bacteria or build up from the previous water.

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Tip 5: Use Floral Preservative

Commercial floral preservatives are designed to help cut flowers take up water and survive longer. Look for preservatives with ingredients like sodium hypochlorite, which is often used in diluted form to clean and disinfect. Simply add a small amount of preservative according to the package directions when filling the vase with fresh water. Many florists recommend changing to preservative water after the initial fresh water cut.

Tip 6: Keep Tulips Out of Direct Sunlight

Tulips appreciate indirect, cool lighting rather than being placed in direct hot sunlight. Direct sun can cause their leaves and petals to fade more quickly. A nice spot is on a table near a window where they will get light but no direct rays. You also want to make sure they are away from heat sources like appliances or direct air vents. Stability and moderate temperatures will prolong their life span.

Tip 7: Store Cut Tulips in the Refrigerator

If you have more tulips than your vase can hold, place the extra stems in a glass or container with a couple inches of water in the refrigerator. The cool temperatures will help slow their respiration rate and preserve them for when you are ready to display them. Most tulips can maintain freshness for 3-5 days when refrigerated like this before arranging. Always re-cut the stems and change the water first.

Tip 8: Try Plant Food or aspirin

Some people have luck extending tulip life by adding either liquid plant food or powdered aspirin to the vase water. The theory is that these provide extra nutrients. Only use small amounts according to package directions so as not to over-fertilize. Others put a peeled, cut raw potato in the bottom of the vase for its natural preservative effect. What are you waiting for get some flowers in Memphis TN today and try these steps.

Now that you know some simple tricks for keeping cut tulips looking their best for over a week, you may want to get some fresh white tulips to practice your new skills on or just send a red tulip bouquet to someone with these flower care instructions. A Perfect Bloom Memphis is a flower shop that makes beautiful bouquets you can have shipped right to your home. Order Memphis flower delivery now!