Tulip ‘Shirley Double’ offers a captivating display of changing colors and a lush, peony-like form, making it a popular choice for spring landscapes. As a Double Late tulip, it provides substantial blooms that add elegance to garden beds and containers.
Unique Characteristics of ‘Shirley Double’
The ‘Shirley Double’ tulip distinguishes itself with its remarkable color transformation. Its double-petaled structure gives it a full, lush appearance, resembling a peony rather than a typical tulip. Initially, the blossoms open with creamy white petals delicately edged with violet or purple feathering. As the flowers mature, this purple hue intensifies and spreads across the petals, sometimes developing into vibrant violet brushstrokes or a pink blush. This ensures no two flowers are exactly alike throughout its late spring bloom period.
Planting and Cultivation
Cultivating ‘Shirley Double’ tulips begins with planting in the fall, ideally a month before the ground freezes. These tulips thrive in full sun but tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates. Well-draining soil is crucial, as bulbs rot in wet conditions; sandy soil enriched with organic matter is ideal, with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
Plant bulbs 6 to 8 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart for proper growth and air circulation. This depth also insulates against temperature fluctuations. After planting, thoroughly water the area to settle the soil. For containers, ensure adequate drainage and use a quality potting mix.
Ongoing Care and Bloom Management
Once established, ‘Shirley Double’ tulips require minimal care. During dry spells, water to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. After blooms fade, deadhead spent flowers by removing only the flower head. This prevents seed production and directs energy back into the bulb.
Allow foliage to yellow and die back naturally before removing it, as leaves photosynthesize and replenish bulb energy for the next year’s bloom. Though tulips are perennials, ‘Shirley Double’ is often best treated as an annual for consistent blooms, especially in climates without cold winters and dry summers. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced formulation, but avoid over-fertilizing, particularly with high-nitrogen products.
Addressing Common Issues
Pests like aphids can be dislodged with a strong spray of water. Slugs can also affect tulips.
Diseases such as tulip fire (Botrytis) and basal rot are linked to overly wet conditions or poor drainage, causing scorched leaves, distorted stems, or soft, discolored bulbs. Well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering are preventative measures. If bulbs fail to bloom, it may be due to insufficient winter chilling, shallow planting, or inadequate sunlight. Floppy stems indicate lack of sun or excessive moisture. Viral infections, characterized by streaked or mottled foliage and petals, require removal and destruction of affected plants to prevent spread.