(NAPSA)—Even whenit’s cold outside, you can get an early jump on spring with a bunch of fresh tulips. These vibrant flowers are a timeless symbol of spring. Available from January through May, tulips join groundhogs, grass, and new leaves on trees as indicators that warmerweatheris on its way. Tulips were discovered in the 16th century in Turkey, but many varieties actually originated in North Africa, Western and Central Asia, and Europe. With over 100 species and more than 500 different varieties, tulips are one Tulips add warmth and beauty to of the largest membersof thelily family. They’re available in many colors, including striped and variegated, and have many shapes, any occasion. You can get spectacular rare varieties, that were grown in sun-drenched floral fields, delivered to your home. fringed and goblet. Tulips are unique in that they continue to grow after cutting. Their stems will often extend up to two inches after they are clipped. Also, the flower’s attraction to light may cause tulip stems you cut off at least % inch of flower stemsbefore placing yourtulips in a vasefilled with cool water. Add a floral preservative to keep the water fresh and the flowers nourished. Add water to the vase every day. Completely change the water every three days and recut the stems. Place your arrangement in a cool spot, away from heat. Visit 1800flowers.com on the Web for rare tulip varieties, such as the Winter SunshineTulips. including single, double, parrot, to bend, twist and turn into new and beautiful positions. To maximize the life of your flowers, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, one of the largest tulip purveyors in the country, recommends that
