I love going apple picking every year, and I’ve done my fair share of pumpkin picking too, but I had never heard of a farm dedicated to flower picking until two years ago. By the time I caught on to Wicked Tulips Flower Farm back then, it was too late in the season! For Bostonians eager for a spring day trip adventure now that it’s finally warming up, this is truly one of those opportunities you need to jump on ASAP if you want to go and I’ll explain why. After waiting a whole year to experience it for myself in 2018, I can attest that it does not disappoint.
Located in Johnston, Rhode Island, Wicked Tulips Flower Farm is a convenient 45-minute drive from the Boston area. Tulip picking is exactly what it sounds like. For $15-$17 a ticket (it's more expensive on weekends) you are purchasing the opportunity to walk amongst the farm's fields of 600,000+ tulips in all colors, shapes, and sizes to pick 10 to take home with you (additional tulips are $1 a stem). It’s seriously an Instagrammer’s dream.
If this is up your alley, here’s what you need to know before you plan your trip:
Sign up for the mailing list. Wicked Tulips sends out an update in early spring to announce when they predict the fields will be open, based on what they call a “bloom report.” You need to stay on top of this in order to buy tickets before they sell out. This year they anticipate to open in early May.
You must buy tickets online, in advance. They do not sell tickets at the farm and will turn you away. Clear your schedule ahead of time because you need to commit to a specific day when buying your ticket - it is not transferable, even if the weather doesn't cooperate. On that note...
Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. You’ll obviously want to look good in pics ☺ but at the end of the day, it’s a FARM, people. You will be walking on dirt, if not mud. Wear close-toed shoes or boots you don’t mind getting dirty. You’ll need to get low to the ground when grasping each tulip at the base of the stem, so bear that in mind before wearing a skirt (and bare-ing your behind).
Head straight home to put your tulips in water. Cut the tulip stems first, at an angle, to help them absorb the moisture more quickly, and remove all leaves as they will rot if they touch the water. Putting a copper penny in your vase is rumored to make a fresh bouquet last longer. Don't forget to change the water daily to keep your tulips hydrated.
Research ways to best enjoy your tulip display. You’ll probably get about a week max with the cut tulips in full bloom. Pick ones that have not yet bloomed if you want to be surprised and have them last a little longer. Experiment with different types of vases based on the length of your tulip stems (or cut them down if needed).
Read more about the farm here and most of all, enjoy!