Tulipa 'Candy Apple Delight'
The Tulip Candy Apple Delight is a stunning mid-season tulip variety that brings vibrant charm to any garden setting. With its distinctive candy apple red petals beautifully edged in creamy white, this tulip creates a delightful focal point that captures attention from early spring through late April. Perfect for the everyday gardener seeking reliable colour and easy maintenance.
Flower Characteristics
Large, cup-shaped blooms measuring 8-10cm across
Rich candy apple red petals with elegant white margins
Strong, sturdy stems reaching 35-40cm in height
Blooming period: mid to late spring (April-May)
Long-lasting cut flowers with excellent vase life
Darwin Hybrid classification ensuring robust growth
Weather-resistant blooms that withstand spring showers
Naturalises well when left undisturbed
Suitable for borders, containers, and cutting gardens
Soil Conditions
Well-draining soil is essential to prevent bulb rot
Tolerates most soil types including clay, loam, and sandy soils
Optimal pH range: 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Avoid waterlogged or poorly drained areas
Light Requirements
Full sun to partial shade (minimum 6 hours direct sunlight)
Morning sun particularly beneficial for strong stem development
Light afternoon shade acceptable in warmer regions
Climate Suitability
Hardy in USDA zones 3-8 / RHS hardiness H5
Requires cold winter period for proper vernalisation
Excellent frost tolerance once established
When to Plant
Plant bulbs in autumn (October-December) before soil freezes
Allow 12-16 weeks of cold treatment below 10°C
Avoid planting in waterlogged winter conditions
Planting Depth and Spacing
Plant bulbs 15-20cm deep (three times the bulb height)
Space bulbs 10-15cm apart for natural groupings
Plant pointed end upwards, flat base downwards
Planting Tips for Success
Improve heavy soils with horticultural grit or compost
Consider raised beds in areas with poor drainage
Plant in odd-numbered groups (5, 7, or 9) for natural appearance
Mulch lightly after planting to suppress weeds
Watering
Water thoroughly after planting, then sparingly through winter
Increase watering as shoots emerge in spring
Reduce watering after flowering as foliage begins to yellow
Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases
Fertilising
Apply balanced bulb fertiliser (10-10-10) at planting time
Top-dress with compost in early spring as shoots appear
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which encourage soft growth
Post-Flowering Care
Deadhead spent flowers immediately to prevent seed formation
Allow foliage to die back naturally (6-8 weeks after flowering)
Do not cut or tie back green leaves as they feed the bulb
Mark locations before foliage disappears completely
Design Ideas and Companion Plants
Mass plantings create spectacular spring displays
Perfect for formal bedding schemes and cottage gardens
Excellent for naturalising in grass or woodland edges
Outstanding container plant for patios and balconies
Early spring bulbs: crocuses, daffodils, grape hyacinths
Perennial companions: primulas, pulmonarias, bergenia
Ground covers: ajuga, lamium, sweet woodruff
Later-season plants: hardy geraniums, hostas, astilbe
Pest Management
Protect from slugs and snails, particularly emerging shoots
Squirrel and rodent damage: use wire mesh or bulb cages
Aphid control: encourage beneficial insects or use horticultural soap
Disease Prevention
Ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot and fungal issues
Remove any diseased or damaged bulbs immediately
Avoid overcrowding which restricts air circulation
Practice crop rotation in areas with persistent problems
Expected Performance
First Year Results
Strong flowering performance from quality bulbs
Blooms typically last 10-14 days in cool conditions
Excellent cut flower production for indoor arrangements
Long-Term Prospects
Bulbs will multiply naturally over 3-5 years
Gradual increase in flowering display when left undisturbed
May require lifting and dividing every 4-6 years for optimal performance
Reliable annual flowering with proper care and suitable conditions
If lifting bulbs after flowering, cure in a warm, dry location for several weeks before storing in breathable mesh bags. Keep in cool, dark conditions (10-15°C) with good ventilation until replanting time. Label clearly with variety name and planting date for future reference.
Buying Bulbs from Jacksons Nurseries
Bulbs are supplied either in pre-packaged retail packs or in some cases they are loosly picked and sent bagged.