Fresh Tulips Can Be Kept That Way for Week or More

If properly cared for, cut tulips will stay fresh in a vase for a week to 10 days, says Sally Ferguson of the Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center.

She offers these tips:

First, lay the bunch flat on its wrapping paper or a newspaper and cut the stems diagonally at the base with a sharp knife.

Wrap the bunch firmly in the paper, making a cone shape, so the tulips are straight up, with the stems extending well below the paper. Stand the bunch in water for an hour or two, with the paper above the waterline.

When ready to arrange the flowers, recut the stems to the desired length, again on the diagonal.

Add a commercial cut-flower plant food (often included free by florists) to the vase water, top off the water regularly to keep it fresh and place the bouquet out of direct sunlight, high heat and drafts.

She says it’s not correct that a penny, sugar cube, splash of bleach or dash of carbonated lemon-lime soda will extend flower life.