12/15/2025
Why We Add Calcium Nitrate to Our Hydroponic Tulips.
When growing tulips hydroponically, what goes into the water matters just as much as the bulbs themselves. One step we are adding this year is adding calcium nitrate to our trays and here’s why:
Calcium helps strengthen cell walls, which leads to sturdier stems and healthier overall growth as the tulips develop. Stronger cell structure also means the bulbs are less susceptible to breakdown, which can help reduce issues with mold and rot in a wet growing environment.
The nitrate form of nitrogen provides nutrients in a clean, readily available way without encouraging excessive leafy growth. Combined with proper water depth, airflow, and sanitation, calcium nitrate helps create conditions where bulbs stay firmer and healthier throughout the forcing process.
Hydroponic tulips don’t have soil to buffer stress or provide nutrients, so everything they need must come from the water. This small but intentional step supports stronger stems, cleaner trays, and better quality blooms from start to finish.
Follow along as these tulips move from bulb to bloom.
