Tulips are the perfect way to bring a burst of springtime joy into your home, but these beautiful flowers can be a bit tricky to keep fresh. With the right care, though, you can extend their vase life and keep them looking vibrant for a week or more.

Here are some tips to help your cut tulips thrive:

1. Trim and Condition the Stems

When you first bring your tulips home, cut about an inch off the bottom of the stems at an angle. This maximizes the surface area for water uptake. For an extra boost, cut the stems while they're submerged in water to prevent air from blocking the water channels.

2. Keep Them Cool

Tulips are thirsty and sensitive to temperature. To keep them happy, place them in a cool room, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat like radiators or electronics. Adding an ice cube to the vase can also help maintain a cool temperature, slowing the flowers' growth and prolonging their beauty.

3. Choose the Right Vase

Tulips continue to grow even after being cut, often resulting in their iconic "dancing" movement as they stretch toward the light. To support this, opt for a tall, narrow vase that gives the stems plenty of support. If they start to droop, don't worry—this is normal tulip behavior.

4. Change the Water Regularly

Tulips are big drinkers, so check the water level daily and change it every couple of days. Fresh, cold water keeps bacteria at bay and helps your flowers stay fresh. Some people swear by adding a penny to the vase, believing the copper helps to keep the stems firm, though this trick is still up for debate.

5. Rotate the Vase

Tulips grow towards light, so to keep them standing tall and evenly, rotate the vase daily. This simple trick will prevent your tulips from leaning too much in one direction and help them maintain their charm.

By following these steps, your tulips should stay fresh and perky for up to ten days, allowing you to enjoy their vibrant colors and elegant form for as long as possible!