Tulip 'Ad Rem'

Tulip 'Ad Rem' is a breathtaking burst of sunset color, rising with elegance and fire from the spring earth. Each flower is a living flame—tall, stately, and glowing with a blend of orange and red that seems lit from within. The petals are broad, slightly pointed, and beautifully curved, forming a classic goblet shape that opens wide in sunlight, revealing a soft yellow base that deepens the flower’s inner warmth.

The dominant color is a rich, tangerine-orange, but this is no flat hue—'Ad Rem' shimmers with gradients. Along the edges of each petal, fine strokes of red, coral, or vermilion flicker like painted brushstrokes, giving the bloom a sense of movement, like fire caught in still form. As the tulip matures, the colors soften and shift subtly, adding a dynamic quality that makes each day's viewing a little different.

These vibrant flowers are held high on strong, upright stems that can reach up to 20 inches (50 cm), giving them an assertive presence in the garden. They sway gently in spring breezes but never droop, making them ideal for borders, flower beds, or dramatic mid-spring displays. The foliage is clean and elegant—long, grey-green leaves that provide the perfect contrast to the vivid blooms without stealing attention.

Zones 3 - 8

When to Plant

• Timing: Plant tulip bulbs in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter.

Choosing the Right Spot

• Sunlight: Tulips prefer full sun to partial shade. A spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day is ideal.
• Soil: Opt for well-drained soil. Tulips dislike soggy conditions, so avoid areas where water tends to pool. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some compost or sand to improve drainage.

How to Plant Tulip Bulbs

1. Prepare the Soil:
• Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches.
• Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and enhance drainage.
2. Determine Planting Depth and Spacing:
• Depth: Plant the bulbs 6-8 inches deep, measuring from the base of the bulb to the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space the bulbs about 4-6 inches apart. This will give them room to grow and ensure good air circulation.
3. Planting Steps:
• Dig a hole that’s about 6-8 inches deep and slightly wider than the bulb.
• Place the bulb in the hole with the pointed end facing up.
• Cover the bulb with soil and gently press it down to remove any air pockets.
4. Watering:
• Water the bulbs thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.
• Ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is crucial to prevent bulb rot.
5. Mulching:
• Apply a layer of mulch (2-3 inches) over the planting area. Mulch helps insulate the soil and retain moisture, and it can also help prevent weed growth.

Aftercare

• Spring Growth: As temperatures warm in the spring, tulips will start to grow. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Fertilizing: Tulips generally do not require much fertilizing. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer or bone meal in early spring as the shoots emerge to support healthy growth.

Additional Tips

• Pests and Diseases: Tulips are generally hardy, but be mindful of pests like aphids or diseases such as fungal infections. Good drainage and proper spacing can help prevent many issues.
• Companion Planting: Tulips look beautiful with other spring flowers such as daffodils, hyacinths, and muscari. They can also be combined with ornamental grasses and perennials for a dynamic garden display.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a vibrant and colorful tulip display in your garden come springtime!