Tulip

(Tulipa species)

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Green basal leaves, sometimes with leaves on the flower stem as well. Single cup shaped flower. Many other forms available.

FLOWER COLORS:

Red

AFTER FLOWERING:

May discard, or store in cool place and place outside in spring as soon as soil can be worked. May also be planted in the fall.

AVAILABLE:

December to May

CONTAINER:

Small planter.

LIGHT:

High. Full sun (unless noted differently in "COMMENTS"), filtered light, south window, atrium, thousands of footcandles.

WATER:

Normal. Water thoroughly, let soil dry to touch to a soil depth of 1/2".

TEMPERATURE:

Medium. 61 - 70 (degrees F) days, 56 - 65 nights.

HUMIDITY:

Average

FERTILIZER:

Not necessary while in flower

SOIL MIX:

Well drained soil mix.

PROPOGATION:

Bulbs

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely plant with healthy foliage and bright, clear colored flowers. Flowers not fully opened are desirable. Avoid plants with insect or disease damage. Buy large, firm bulbs.

CARE:

Very challenging. Attractive while in bloom, then usually discarded. Difficult to cultivate year round and rebloom inside.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

Many cultivars available in many forms and colors.

PROBLEMS:

Bulb rot: Provide adequate drainage. Do not let plant sit in water.
Gray mold: Pick off affected leaves. Move plant to warmer, dryer location.

COMMENTS:

Can buy bulbs to force in the winter. Also used as cut flowers. Stems elongate in arrangements and need to be cut every couple of days.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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