The Tulip Oxford Elite is a favored and visually captivating choice for many gardens. Its striking appearance makes it a popular variety, offering a vibrant display that enhances garden designs.
Characteristics of Tulip Oxford Elite
Tulip Oxford Elite is recognized for its distinct and vivid coloration, presenting large, cup-shaped flowers. The petals display a vibrant red hue, often suffused with rose, golden yellow, and orange, or described as cherry-red with orange-yellow edges. Its robust nature is supported by strong, sturdy stems that typically reach a height of 22 to 24 inches, providing good resistance against wind and rain. These impressive blooms generally appear in mid-spring, offering a significant visual impact. The foliage consists of sword-like, grayish-green leaves that remain throughout the season.
Planting and Growing Tulip Oxford Elite
Plant Tulip Oxford Elite bulbs in the fall, six to eight weeks before the ground freezes, typically from September to December depending on your climate. Bulbs require a chilling period over winter to develop strong root systems and prepare for spring blooms.
A location offering full sun, at least six hours daily, is optimal. In warmer climates, partial shade or morning sun can be beneficial as tulips do not thrive in excessive heat.
The soil must be well-drained, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0, and can be dry or sandy. Heavy clay or poorly drained soil can cause bulbs to rot, so mix in a 2 to 4-inch layer of compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Plant bulbs pointed end up, about 6 to 8 inches deep. Space bulbs 4 to 6 inches apart, or 2 to 3 inches apart for a fuller display in mass plantings. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root development, especially if dry.
Ongoing Care for Tulip Oxford Elite
Tulip Oxford Elite benefits from consistent moisture during dry spells, particularly after emergence and throughout the blooming period. Avoid overwatering or consistently wet soil, which can lead to bulb rot.
For healthy growth, fertilize in the fall after planting and again in early spring as new shoots appear. A balanced NPK organic fertilizer supports healthy leaves, vibrant flowers, and strong stems. Apply fertilizer by lightly working it into the topsoil, ensuring it does not directly contact the bulb.
Cleaning up dead leaves and spent flowers at the end of the season helps prevent pests and diseases. Aphids can be managed by spraying with water or introducing beneficial insects. Proper drainage helps prevent fungal diseases.
Enjoying and Extending Blooms
To appreciate the blooms and encourage future performance, consider cutting flowers for indoor arrangements. The ideal time to cut is when blooms have 50% to 75% of their full color, just before they are fully open. Use sharp snips to cut stems at an angle, and remove any leaves below the water line to prevent bacterial growth.
Deadheading spent blooms prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production, redirecting that energy back to the bulb. After blooming, allow foliage to naturally yellow and die back. This process is important for the bulb to absorb nutrients and energy for the following season’s growth. Tulip Oxford Elite is a perennial variety; in suitable climates, bulbs can often be left in the ground to naturalize and return for several years.