Arranging Tulips and Caring for Them

Tulips in Floral Arrangements: How to Use Them in Bouquets and Decor

Tulips are a timeless favorite, and are especially popular during Spring. Whether you're planning a wedding, a birthday celebration, or decorating for a holiday, tulips can bring a fresh and sophisticated touch to any event. Their versatility makes them perfect for both modern and classic arrangements. For a contemporary feel, mix tulips with sleek, minimalistic blooms like orchids or lilies, creating a refined, monochromatic palette. Alternatively, for a more traditional look, pair tulips with soft roses, peonies, or daffodils in a classic, romantic arrangement that never goes out of style.

Incorporating tulips into bouquets for weddings is especially popular, as they symbolize perfect love and new beginnings. A spring wedding, in particular, benefits from tulips' seasonal charm. You can use them as the focal point in the bridal bouquet, or scatter them throughout the table centerpieces for a cohesive look. Tulips work beautifully in both loose, organic arrangements or more structured, tight bouquets. To give your floral design a touch of modernity, try mixing tulips with bold colors like deep purple, fuchsia, or coral—these hues create stunning contrasts against the soft petals of the tulip, making the flowers pop.

After being cut at the farm, tulips exhibit a remarkable ability to keep growing. Though their roots are no longer connected to the soil, the stems can continue to elongate by drawing moisture and nutrients from the water in the vase. This growth is a natural response to the plant’s biological processes, which aim to complete its lifecycle. Tulips may even continue to open their blooms and bend toward light sources, which gives them a unique charm after being cut. They may even grow downward which gives the impression they are drooping. Fear not because you can do something.

Caring for Cut Tulips: How to Make Your Fresh Tulips Last Longer

While tulips are undeniably beautiful, they also require a little extra care to ensure their longevity. One of the first things to remember when purchasing cut tulips is that they are thirsty flowers. Upon arrival, immediately trim the stems at a 45-degree angle, removing about an inch or two. This will help the tulips take in water more effectively, which is essential for keeping them hydrated. Place them in a clean vase filled with lukewarm water—this helps prevent bacteria buildup and promotes a longer vase life.

To make your tulips last as long as possible, keep them in a cool area away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or drafts. Tulips thrive in cooler temperatures, so placing them in a room with good air circulation is ideal. If possible, avoid placing them near fruit, as certain fruits release ethylene gas, which can accelerate the aging process of flowers. Additionally, change the water in the vase every two days to keep it fresh and remove any debris that may have accumulated.

Another tip for extending the lifespan of your cut tulips is to give them a regular trim. Every few days, trim the stems again—just a small amount to keep them drinking properly. That prevents the "bending" mentioned above. To help counteract this, keep your tulips upright in the vase and gently reposition them as needed.

Tulips can be a bit finicky, but with the right care, you can enjoy their stunning beauty for longer. By following these simple tips for vase care and handling, you'll ensure your tulips remain fresh, vibrant, and eye-catching throughout their lifespan. Whether you’re showcasing them in a special bouquet or adding them to your home decor, a little attention can go a long way in preserving the elegance of these beloved flowers.

At Vogue, we have several handmade tulip arrangements available send to a loved one today.  

See all our tulip arrangements here.