Spring-flowering bulbs have got to be tough. On an early spring day, it can be freezing in the morning and 80 degrees by afternoon. Climate change is intensifying these temperature swings, especially on the warm end of the spectrum.
With this in mind, we are using our trial garden to identify varieties with superior staying power. We are looking for heat-resistant, long-lasting tulips and daffodils that retain their good looks even when the weather gets unseasonably warm.
Here are some tulips and daffodils that grabbed our attention in our NJ trial gardens last spring. All are strong growers with flowers that lasted days longer than average. When selecting bulbs for your garden this fall, consider adding a few of these high performers.
Long-Lasting Tulips
Tulip Queen of Night . Unmistakable and unrivaled. These striking, maroon-black tulips are tall and graceful in the garden. Their compact flower heads have a high-gloss shine that catches the light and accentuates the depth of their color. Queen of Night was introduced almost 80 years ago and has consistently been one of the most popular tulips on the market. Bloom time is mid to late spring.
Tulip Dordogne . Big flowers with excellent staying power. These large, goblet-shaped blossoms are a lovely combination of rose-pink and apricot. Bloom time is late spring.
Long-Lasting Daffodils
Daffodil Tete a Tete . This is a tried and true favorite that's been around since the late 1940s. Tete a Tete stands just 7 to 8" tall, yet it has a big presence in the garden. Each bulb produces an astonishing number of small, bright yellow flowers that open early and last for weeks.
Daffodil Beautiful Eyes . These jonquilla daffodils give you several stems per bulb, with a cluster of two or three flowers on each stem. The cheery blossoms have bright white petals surrounding small, golden-orange cups.
Daffodil Golden Dawn . Tazetta daffodils are ideal for warmer parts of the country. Each stem bears a cluster of fragrant golden yellow flowers with deep orange cups.
Our search for heat-resistant, long-lasting tulips and daffodils is ongoing. Our complete line of tulips and daffodils is available to shop from spring through late fall. Shipping begins in late September and continues through November. Use our Bloom Time Chart for Spring and Summer Bulbs to plan a succession of blooms.
