Tulips are like the groundhogs of springtime. When you see the tulips start to bloom, that is when you know – spring is here.

Many people do not know much about tulips.

According to Teleflora.com, the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation started using tulips as their symbol in 1980. Like other flowers too, they are edible. You can use them as a replacement for onions, making bread, and even turn them to wine.

The best way to care for tulips is to put them in cold water after you cut them, receive them, or buy them. Make sure to change the water in the vase every couple of days and re-trim the bottom of the stem one centimeter for a lasting beautiful flower.

Tulips are not the only flowers blooming. Redbud trees and bradford pear trees around campus are blossoming as well. Take a walk and admire the spring colors heading our way.

If you are looking for somewhere local to purchase tulips, Minco is the place to go (head North on Hwy-81 from Chickasha). At 417 SW South St. in Minco, you can cut your own tulips for a dollar a piece. Since they have already started blooming, you can go anytime to pick your flowers. Just in time for Easter weekend, too. Call (405) 370-4230 and talk to Ryan Oaks to get more information or to ask about a delivery. He will deliver in a 25-mile radius for a $10 fee.

Erin Lynch is a senior communication major from Yukon, OK.