
We all know the wrongdoers: nasty furry rodents devouring tasty bulbs we inserted in the soil after long hours of careful studying the latest catalogues with stunning new (and expensive) tulip cultivars. But the bank voles are not the only ones good at shattering our plans and hopes. Severe frost spells, mole crickets, viruses, fungal diseases, strong winds and heavy rains can do their job too. Each time we decide to buy and plant beautiful tulips we get the above mentioned adversities in the pack.
The only remedy for the problem would be forgetting about tulips and planting narcissi instead. Their bulbs do not attract any rodents. I know, I know, this suggestion cannot be treated with due respect because tulips are simply irreplaceable (of course, they can be replaced with empty spaces) and it is really hard to imagine a spring flower bed without tulips of all sorts. So, all we can do is ascribe morally dubious characteristics to tulip plants to let off steam and buy a bag of precious old and new cultivars to exercise our determination again. Maybe this time we will be more lucky?
Today I suggest that we listen to a wonderful aria form Il Barbiere di Siviglia sung by Maria Callas. The aria and the matchless interpretation by Primadonna Assoluta can reflect some complex feelings tulips are ready to give freely.