Learn how to keep tulips from drooping using a simple penny trick that really works. Discover why a copper coin can help your tulips stay fresh and upright longer—plus tips for arranging and caring for your favorite spring blooms.
While out Thrifting with the Gals in Maine yesterday, I treated myself to a bunch of pink tulips at the grocery store—because when it’s eight degrees outside, a splash of spring is a must, right?
Once home, I placed them in one of my favorite thrifted vases, only to find that they were already drooping.
But then I remembered an old trick: drop a copper penny into the vase to keep tulips standing tall. It may sound odd, but it totally works.
And while I do love the charm of floppy tulips, this simple flower hack is too good not to share.
Find an Old Copper Penny (Not a Shiny New One!)
Time to dig into that old stash of change—you know the one tucked away in a drawer or vintage tin somewhere?
What you’re looking for is an old copper penny, not one of those newer shiny ones. The trick only works with pennies made mostly of copper, which means you’ll want a coin dated before 1982 (the year the U.S. switched to zinc).
In the photo below, you can see the difference: the shiny 2015 penny just won’t do the job. Look for one with that rich copper patina—aged and perfectly imperfect.
It’s that little detail that helps keep tulips from drooping in your vase.
Why Does a Copper Penny Keep Tulips from Drooping?
While no one knows the exact science behind it, many flower lovers swear by this old-school floral hack. It’s believed that the copper in older pennies may act as a natural fungicide, preventing bacteria from growing in the water—helping tulip stems stay upright and fresh longer. Just one copper penny per dozen tulips can make all the difference!
How to Keep Tulips from Drooping with a Penny
Once you’ve found your old copper penny, just drop it into the vase with your tulips and fresh water. That’s it!
I use this simple flower trick every time I bring home a bunch of store-bought tulips—and it always works like a charm. Just take a peek at the photos: when I first placed these pink tulips into my favorite thrifted vase, they were already drooping.
After adding the penny? They perked right up (well… all but one stubborn stem!).
You don’t have to take my word for it—this penny hack is one of the easiest ways to keep tulips from drooping and make them last longer in your spring flower arrangements.
No more drooping tulips.
Recommended Reading
You may also enjoy these 17 Simple Tulip Arrangements You Can Create Today post.
Recommended Reading
You may also enjoy this Romantic Table Setting Beautiful in Valentine’s Vintage Pink.
Shiplap and Shells
And who knows? This might just be the year I finally plant my own tulip bulbs too. If you’re dreaming of your own vibrant spring tulip garden, check out my friend Kim from Shiplap and Shells. She shares 12 Must-Read Tips for Planting Spring Blooming Bulbs in the Fall—her tulip beds are seriously stunning!
More Ways to Keep Tulips from Drooping
Tulips are such cheerful flowers, but they can be a little dramatic when it comes to staying upright. In addition to the tried-and-true copper penny trick, here are a few extra tips to help keep your tulips fresh and standing tall in your favorite vase or arrangement:
That said, I still find that adding an old copper penny to the vase works every single time—and it’s such a fun, vintage-inspired floral hack to try.
Give it a go and see for yourself!
Your Guide to an Eclectic Style~
I’d love to hear from you! If you have thoughts, questions, or just want to pop in and say hello, feel free to leave a comment below. And if you have a vintage-loving friend, don’t forget to share this post—they might find a little inspiration here too.
Do you have a flair for all things vintage, too? I would love to see and feature you in our Reader’s Showcase Series. A place for you to share and be recognized for your talents and passion for all things thrifting, vintage, and antique decor-related inspired by your time here with Dabbling & Decorating. Email me at [email protected]
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Aww thanks for the mention Kristin, it works like a charm too:)
WHOA! I just stumbled upon your blog. You have inspired me to get myself over to my favorite ‘junking’ (thrifting to you) shop and do some digging. It has been a while and BTW, I will be stopping by the grocery to pick up some tulips on the way home. Love your blog and look forward to getting it each week.
Aww, thanks so much Nancy, I’m so glad you were inspired and I’m looking forward to visiting with you weekly! Best, Ann
This is such a great idea Ann. I am definitely going to use this ti when I have tulips this spring.
I CAN’T WAIT TO TRY THIS! I HAVE NEVER HEARD THIS BEFORE.
Let me know how you make out 🌷
Such a neat tip!! Tulips are so lovely…it’s my favorite flower to use in vases. Thanks for sharing!
Wow! Who knew???? I can’t wait to get some tulips just to try this out. As much as I love winter, this will be a great “pick me up” !! Especially love the pink!! Thank you for sharing!!!🌷🌷🌷
Thanks for stopping by the blog Kathy 🌷
This is the most amazing trick!! Thanks so much for sharing it and for the view of your beautiful tulips too!
Ann,
I’ve never heard this before. So good to know.
🌷🌷🌷
I’m doing this not only for tulips,for different flowers also…
Tulips continue to grow after being cut, sometimes as much as three inches. That accounts for much of the drooping.
Wow! Amazing beauties & smart❣️ thank U for the tips…🌷🍃🌷🍃🌷
You’re so welcome, glad you enjoyed the post!
Definitely giving this a try next time!! Thank you for the tip!
Thanks for stopping by Robyn🌷🌷
Wow, I’ve never heard this! Thanks so much for sharing. I just love tulips!
You bet☺️😉🌷