Why Is My Siam Tulip Wilting?

Question

Hello, I’m a new container gardener, having never bought plants before and I’ve recently bought a Siam tulip. I’ve potted it in a container with other bedding plants, and placing it on my balcony with partial shade. I water it every 2-3 days when the soil is dry. I’ve noticed that the leaf edges and tips have started to go brown and now the actual tulip has started to droop a bit. The other buds on the plant don’t seem to be opening either. Could you please advise what I’m doing wrong please? Thanks very much for your help! Becky

• 
• 
• 
• 

Answer 1

These symptoms can be one of two things-

Overwatering is suspect. Although soil may seem dry on top, a few inches down can be very wet. This is especially true in containers with no drainage holes to allow all extra water out.

In container, it is best to allow the soil to dry, thoroughly, down to about 2 or 3 inches between waterings. Any moisture at all will mean that watering needs to be held off.

If the container has no drainage holes, it is best to let the soil dry completely, almost down halfway the container between watering.

My other suspect will be overfeeding. If the container is fed a high nitrogen food then this will cause tip burning and nutrient burn symptoms.

I would treat with a fungicide, and make sure to keep a close eye on watering. Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/biofungicide-information.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/homemade-fungicide.htm

Answer 2

Thank you very much BushDoctor! Very helpful