Pest identification
What's eating my tulipa 'prinses irene'?
Squirrels & mice
Signs: Bulbs excavated or consumed; absent plants where bulbs were sited
Control: Plant bulbs in wire-mesh baskets; lay hardware cloth over the bed and pin down; apply squirrel-deterrent granules
Aphids
Signs: Colonies on stems and undersides of leaves; honeydew stickiness; possible tulip virus spread
Control: Water jet removal; insecticidal soap sprays weekly; attract ladybirds and hoverflies with companion plantings
Rabbits
Signs: Stems cleanly cut near ground level; foliage and buds eaten, especially on border edges
Control: Low wire netting around flower beds; rabbit repellent spray on emerging growth; motion-activated deterrents
Keep tulipa 'prinses irene' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Tulipa 'Prinses Irene' pests — FAQ
What is eating my tulipa 'prinses irene'?
Tulipa 'Prinses Irene' is a Triumph tulip highly favoured by squirrels and mice that dig up the bulbs in autumn and winter. Aphids are a consistent spring pest on stems and foliage. Slugs target emerging shoots. In rural gardens, deer and rabbits will browse the flowers and upper foliage overnight.
How do I get rid of squirrels & mice on tulipa 'prinses irene'?
Bulbs excavated or consumed; absent plants where bulbs were sited Plant bulbs in wire-mesh baskets; lay hardware cloth over the bed and pin down; apply squirrel-deterrent granules
How do I get rid of aphids on tulipa 'prinses irene'?
Colonies on stems and undersides of leaves; honeydew stickiness; possible tulip virus spread Water jet removal; insecticidal soap sprays weekly; attract ladybirds and hoverflies with companion plantings
How do I get rid of rabbits on tulipa 'prinses irene'?
Stems cleanly cut near ground level; foliage and buds eaten, especially on border edges Low wire netting around flower beds; rabbit repellent spray on emerging growth; motion-activated deterrents