Tulip Tulipa 'Candy Prince' (PBR) (1)

Water

Tulips, including 'Candy Prince', should be watered thoroughly at planting and then not again until you see the first sprouts. Once the tulips are actively growing, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged by providing about 1 gallon of water per square foot every week, depending on the weather. Over-watering can cause bulb rot, so it's crucial to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the flowering period, consistent moisture is important, but once the flowers have faded, you can reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back. Tulips require less water after blooming as they enter a dormant period.

Light

Tulips, such as 'Candy Prince', thrive best in full sunlight. They should be planted in a spot where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. However, they can also tolerate partial shade, especially in the afternoon when the sun is the strongest. Proper light exposure is essential for the development of strong stems and vibrant blooms.

Temperature

Tulips including the 'Candy Prince' variety, do well in a broad range of temperatures. They need a period of cold dormancy, which is why they are planted in the fall. They can survive winter temperatures well below freezing, but the ideal growing temperature once they start to sprout is between 60°F and 70°F during the day and slightly cooler at night. Once established, they can tolerate spring temperatures up to 75°F but should be protected from extreme heat.

Pruning

Pruning is not typically necessary for 'Candy Prince' tulips. However, after flowering, it is recommended to deadhead the plant by removing the spent flower heads to prevent seed production. Leave the foliage in place until it turns yellow and can be removed easily—this is when the tulip's leaves are no longer photosynthesizing and conveying energy to the bulb for the next year. The best time for deadheading is soon after the blooms have faded.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

Tulips thrive in a well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. The best soil mix for 'Candy Prince' tulips consists of one-third garden soil, one-third compost or well-rotted manure, and one-third sharp sand or grit to improve drainage. Ensure the soil is light and does not hold water to prevent bulb rot.

Repotting

Tulips including 'Candy Prince' do not require frequent repotting as they grow from bulbs that are to be planted annually. Rather than repotting, tulip bulbs should be lifted after the foliage has died back and stored in a cool, dry place to be planted again in the fall.

Humidity & Misting

Tulips such as 'Candy Prince' are not particularly sensitive to humidity levels; average outdoor humidity suits them well. They do not need specific humidity control if grown in their preferred climate and outdoor conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Candy Prince tulip bulbs in pots with drainage holes and direct sunlight.

• Outdoor

  Plant bulbs in Autumn in well-draining soil; full sun to partial shade.

• Hardiness zone

  3-8 USDA

Life cycle

Tulipa 'Candy Prince', commonly referred to as the Candy Prince Tulip, starts its life as a bulb planted in the fall before the first frost. During winter, it undergoes a period of dormancy, which is crucial for the development of the flower. With the arrival of spring, the bulb breaks dormancy, sending up shoots that develop into stems and leaves. Following this, the distinctive lavender-pink flowers bloom in mid to late spring, offering a spectacular display. After the blooms have faded, the plant enters a period where it stores energy in the bulb for the next season, eventually withering above ground by early summer. The cycle repeats the following year, with the bulb lying dormant again until the next growth period.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• The most popular method of propagation for the Tulip 'Candy Prince' is through the division of its bulbs. Bulb division is typically done in the fall, after the foliage has died back and the bulbs have completed their dormancy period. Gardeners should carefully dig up the bulbs, being cautious not to damage them, and gently separate the offset bulbs that have formed around the base of the mother bulb. These offsets, or daughter bulbs, should have some roots attached and can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) apart in well-draining soil, ensuring that the pointy end of the bulb is facing upwards. By the following spring, these newly planted bulbs will likely have established themselves and will be ready to produce the characteristic blooms of Tulip 'Candy Prince'.