Why Do Tulips Wilt?

Weather

• Although tulips are hardy enough to tolerate some changes in the weather, extreme temperatures--such as a hard frost or snow--may cause outdoor-growing tulips to wilt and whither. Don't worry about cold temperatures before the tulip blooms; tulips require extended cold periods before growth.

Planting

• If you try to plant a potted tulip outside it may wilt and die, notes the University of North Dakota Extension. Instead of taking the tulip out of the pot, plant the entire pot in the ground as-is, then care for the tulip as normal.

Normal Care

• While a wilting tulip may indicate that it needs more water, it may also indicate too much water or poor soil drainage. In general, tulips prefer soil that's too dry rather than too moist. Unlike what many may think, tulips are native to the hot Turkish climate. If you're concerned that you may have watered the plant too much, inspect the bulb; if it's brown and mushy, you've over-watered the plant. Keep indoor potted plants in bright, yet indirect sunlight, but away from heat sources such as heating ducts and appliances.

Life Cycle

• Like most flowering plants, the tulip's bloom will not remain indefinitely. When the flower is spent, remove the stem with sharp, sterilized scissors, and allow the foliage to yellow and wilt back. Gently remove the foliage from the bulb and it should grow again the following year.

Fun Facts

• Since tulips continue to grow once cut from the stem--up to 1 inch or more, according to Dr. Leonard Perry from the University of Vermont Extension--you may notice that your tulip floral arrangement will change shape over a few days and appear to droop and wilt. If you prefer your tulips to stand more erect in the vase instead of dropping over, choose a vase with a smaller opening and add more stems to the arrangement.