Tulip 'Creme Upstar'

Where to Plant:

This is a beautiful and romantic double late tulip, producing large, peony-like flowers with a delightful blend of colours, from creamy-yellow to soft apricot and pink. The heavy, multi-petalled flower heads mean it is best to plant them in a sheltered position, protected from strong winds and heavy spring rain which can damage the blooms. A spot in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil is required. It is an excellent choice for a prominent position in a border or for a luxurious display in a large container.

How to Plant:

Tulip bulbs should be planted late in the autumn, ideally during October or November. This later planting helps to reduce the risk of the fungal disease, Tulip Fire. Dig a hole and plant each bulb at a depth of at least twice its own height, which is typically about 15cm (6 inches) deep. Ensure the pointed tip is facing upwards. Space the bulbs about 10-15cm apart to give each large flower enough room to open fully.

Aftercare:

For the most spectacular and reliable display, fancy double tulips like this are best treated as annuals, with fresh bulbs being planted each autumn. To try and encourage them to return, you must deadhead the flower as soon as it fades and feed the plant with a high-potassium fertiliser. It is then essential to allow the foliage to die back and yellow completely before lifting the bulbs, drying them, and storing them somewhere cool and dark until it is time to replant.