Invoking all the fiery passion of its name, 'Affaire' Tulip boasts ravishing picotee blooms over a fast and furious bloom show. This Victory Tulip (a cross between Single Early and Darwin Hybrid) is middle-of-the-pack in size and bloom time, and the head of the pack for beauty and vigor. The finely cut ivory blooms are edged in vibrant violet for a breathtaking effect.
'Affaire' Tulip is one of the Victory hybrid tulips. This crossing combines the earlier bloom time of Single Early Tulips and the increased health, stem strength, and bloom size of Darwin Hybrid Tulips, resulting in an exceptional combination of health, vigor, and early season color. Victory hybrids are mid-sized tulips that also boast a key feature setting them apart from either parent: the very angular shapes of their blooms. This unique new combination is so lovely that we are sure it will become another staple for tulip fans.
Like other tulips, 'Affaire' Tulip thrives in sunny spots, and is not picky about soil type so long as the drainage is good. Compacted or heavy clay soils tend to hold standing water, so amend these with grit, compost, or soil conditioner. Most tulips are natives of Southern Russia which have subsequently been bred for generations by the Dutch bulb market, and this means that tulips are adapted to serious winters: these cold-hardy bulbs actually thrive best when they get plenty of chill hours. In warmer zones (7 and 8), tulips like more shade, with just some morning sun.
Plant 'Affaire' Tulip bulbs about 8 inches deep, but dig the hole a little deeper so that you can add some grit like kitty litter or crushed gravel. This grit will help you achieve the drainage that is vital for tulip beds, and will also deter pests like rodents, which love to eat the bulbs. Water the bulbs in after planting, to help them break out of dormancy, but afterwards don't worry about watering; tulips thrive happily in dry conditions.
