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Tulip

Tulipa spp.

Quick Care Guide

Prune: Remove faded flowers to prevent seed formation
Sunlight: Needs 6+ hours of full sun
Water: Weekly, keep soil moist but well-drained
Fertilize: Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season
Leaves: Long, lance-shaped, green leaves
Flowers: Vibrant, bell-shaped blooms in spring

Pruning

Tulips benefit from removing spent blooms after flowering to prevent seed production. This process, known as deadheading, encourages the plant to focus energy on storing nutrients in the bulb for the next season. While the foliage is still green, avoid cutting it back until it has died naturally, as the leaves help the bulb store energy.

Watering

Tulips need consistent moisture, particularly during their growing season in the spring. Water them weekly or when the top inch of soil is dry. Ensure the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging, which can cause the bulbs to rot. Water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Leaves

Tulip leaves are long, lance-shaped, and green, providing a lush backdrop to the bright flowers. These leaves remain green until they die back in the summer after the blooming season. Do not cut back the foliage until it has naturally yellowed.

Sunlight

Tulips thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Planting in a sunny location ensures that they produce strong, vibrant blooms. Tulips may not bloom as well in partial or full shade.

Fertilization

Feed tulips every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10). Avoid fertilizing after blooming, as tulips do not require additional nutrients once they have finished flowering. Over-fertilizing may result in weak growth and fewer flowers.

Flowers

Tulip flowers are bell-shaped and come in an array of vibrant colors, including red, yellow, pink, purple, and white. Blooms appear in early to mid-spring, making tulips a favorite in spring gardens. The variety of flower shapes ranges from simple, single blooms to more intricate, frilled varieties.

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