How to Extend the Life of Your Fresh-Cut Tulips

One of my favorite things about spring is fresh-cut tulips. You can find tulip bunches in the floral section of just about every store during the spring making them widely available. The only problem is trying to make your fresh-cut tulips last longer than a few days. If you find that this is often a problem for you, I have a few tips to share that will make your fresh-cut tulips last longer.

The Selection

When selecting your fresh cut tulips you should be very picky. Don't go for tulips whose petals are open as this means the tulips really aren't that fresh and have probably spent quite a bit of time in the floral section. Instead try to pick tulips which are closed tightly as these are likely more fresh and will last longer.

Pennies

When I purchased a bunch of fresh cut tulips from a local grocery store I read the care label which stated that pennies would extend the life of my tulips. The care label said to drop two or three pennies into the flower water before adding the fresh cut tulips. The pennies help extend the life of your tulips making them last longer. Adding pennies to your tulip water is just one of the home remedies said to extend their life. Other remedies include adding bleach or aspirin to your tulips water.

Re-cut and Re-water

To make your fresh cut tulips last longer you should re-cut and re-water them on a daily basis. You should also add in fresh cut flower food to your water as well if you have any. By tending to your tulips daily you will help extend their life and beauty.

Keep it Cool

Another tip in extending the life of your fresh cut tulips is to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat. During the night you should also try placing your fresh cut tulips in the coolest room in the house. Doing so will help to prolong the life of your tulip arrangement.

Room Temperature

The temperature of your vase water for the tulips should be room temperature. Water that is too cold or too hot can end up killing your tulips before their time. Your water should be shallow as well. By being careful with the temperature of your water you can allow your tulips to live a longer life.

Trim the Stems

Trimming the stems of your tulips will help them to better absorb the water keeping them fresh and alive. You should trim your stems at a diagonal when you first bring your fresh cut tulips home. As stated above you should also continue to trim your tulip stems on a daily basis to help prolong their life. Once every two days would work as well.