What is “tulip massage”? Master florist shares easy trick for gorgeous tulips
“Tulip massage” may sound unusual, but it’s actually a fun way to give your bouquet a fresh appearance. People have been opening tulip petals for decades, but now many gardening enthusiasts are excited about this old trick once again!
Have you come across the playful term tulip massage on social media? This winter’s most amusing tulip trend involves gently turning the petals to make your tulips look even more dazzling than before.
“‘Massage’ is a fun way to describe the trick because you need to handle the petals gently to prevent them from cracking,” says master florist Saija Sitolahti from Järvenpään Kukkatalo florist’s shop.
My parents founded a flower shop in 1979, and back then they would open tulips for arrangements, such as funeral bouquets.Saija Sitolahti
Sitolahti explains that this is an old practice that has now resurfaced.
“Tulips have been opened since at least the 1970s, and probably even before that. My parents started a flower shop in 1979, and they used to open tulips for arrangements, such as funeral bouquets,” she says.
What are your best tips for tulip massage as a master florist?
- Select tulips that have grown a bit too tall and whose flowers have already opened. It’s difficult to open tightly closed buds without them breaking.
- Gently unfold the cup-shaped petals outward. If a petal breaks, its nutrient flow is disrupted, and the flower won’t stay beautiful for long. Otherwise, opening the petals doesn’t damage the tulip.
