The Origins of and Caring for Tulips

Tulips are one of the most beloved spring flowers. But did you know they have a history as fascinating as their vibrant colors?

The Origins of Tulips

Originating in Central Asia, tulips were cultivated in the Ottoman Empire before making their way to Europe in the 16th century. The Dutch fell in love with them (who could blame them?), and this lead to the infamous Tulipomania in the Netherlands in the 1630s. Rare bulbs were considered to have more worth than gold.

Tulip Mania

After Tulips had been introduced to Europe from the Ottoman Empire they quickly grew in popularity. By the early 17th century, they became a status symbol among the elite Dutch citizens. Their unique colors and patterns, especially the rare “broken” tulips with gorgeous streaking (which is caused by a virus called Tulip Breaking Virus), made them incredibly desirable.

As the demand for tulips grew through the 1630s, conjecture on their value in the future led to the craze of buying and selling. Some bulbs reached prices higher than houses. At the peak of Tulipomania (1636-1637), traders exchanged tulip bulbs on paper without ever even taking ownership of them. This drove the prices to levels that couldn’t be sustained. By early 1637, it was all over. The madness ended and buyers disappeared from auctions. Within weeks the prices plummeted and the market crashed. Many investors ended up bankrupt.

Today, tulips symbolize spring’s arrival and world of purchasing tulips is somewhat more civilized (flower growers know what I mean)! Tulips continue to enchant us with their wide range of hues and variety of shapes. Some are even scented. Whether in a garden or a bouquet, they bring a fresh pop of color wherever they go!

Care for Cut Tulips

For longer lasting tulips follow these simple tips:

• Trim the stems at an angle and place them in cool, clean water.

• Remove the outer leaves and any that fall below the waterline to prevent bacteria from forming.

• Keep them cool. Tulips much prefer a chilly spot away from direct sunlight and heat.

• Give them a fresh drink by changing the water every two days.

• Support their shape. Tulips continue to grow after being cut and may bend. Droopy stems? If you want to straighten them simply wrap them in paper and place them in water for a few hours to encourage straightening.

• You can also stop them from lengthening by poking a tiny hole just below the flower head with a needle or pin to release any air bubbles that can hinder water consumption. Keep in mind that tulips are both geotropic and phototropic, meaning they will naturally bend upwards due to gravity (even if they’re lying down), and they will also grow and bend towards a light source.

With a bit of care, tulips can stay fresh for up to a week, making them a beautiful and long-lasting addition to any space.

Want locally grown, fresh-cut tulips? Be sure to sign up for my mailing list to be the notified when the tulips are ready for purchase. My subscribers always get first access to gorgeous, seasonal flowers before the general public. They’re only a few days away from being harvested!