Helpful tips for making your tulip delivery last longer

On average, tulips should last at least 7 days, and with proper care, they can often last for 10 days or more. Here are some helpful tips to keep your tulips fresh for 10+ days.

Tips for Keeping Your Tulips Fresh:

1. Buy Tulips at the Right Stage: Always choose tulips that are 'green,' with tight buds and minimal colour showing. Avoid tulips that are already in full bloom, as they won't last as long.

2. Opt for Premium Blooms: There are different grades of flowers, so it's best to buy from a Melbourne florist that offers premium-grade blooms. Higher-quality, 'elite' tulips will generally last longer than 'B-grade' varieties. Supporting your local Melbourne florist can help build rapport, also giving you access to limited or special-quality blooms.

3. Best Days to Buy Tulips: In Melbourne, Victoria, the best days to buy tulips are Tuesdays and Thursdays, which coincide with the freshest market or grower days. To ensure the freshest tulips, pre-order over the phone or online the day before.

4. Handle with Care: If you've picked up your tulips from the florist, avoid leaving them in a warm car or out of water for more than 30 minutes. Tulips don’t fare well in heat, so plan accordingly to keep them cool.

5. Prepare the Vase Properly: Clean your vase thoroughly before displaying your fresh tulips. Bacteria in a dirty vase can shorten their lifespan. Scrub the vase with a hint of bleach to remove any residue, rinse with warm to hot water, and dry it completely.

6. Use Cold, Fresh Water: Fill the vase with about 2 inches of cold water. Tulips prefer a low water level, as too much water can cause them to deteriorate more quickly.

7. Cut the Stems at an Angle: Before arranging the tulips, trim the stems with sharp scissors or a knife at a 45-degree angle. This allows for better water absorption.

8. Refresh Water Regularly: Change the water, wash the vase, and refill with cold water every second day. This will help extend the life of your tulips.

9. Keep Tulips Cool: Tulips thrive in cooler environments, so place them in a cool room away from direct sunlight or air-conditioning. Remember, tulips are winter flowers and love being cold.
   
   

By following these tips, you can enjoy your fresh, locally grown, premium-quality tulips for much longer. Personally, I’ve managed to keep tulips fresh for up to 16 days - let me know if you can beat that!

Kate x