Water

• Problems with watering affect the health of a tulip over a short period of time. A lack of water in the planter causes the tulip to dry up and wilt, drooping and turning brown. Too much water that builds up inside a planter that doesn't drain fast enough will begin to drown the tulip, causing it to swell and wilt. Water the tulip when the top portion of the soil is dry and make sure the water drains.
  
  

Pests

• Pest problems that affect tulips can lead to wilt as the insects damage the plant and prevent it from taking in nutrients. Some pests, like aphids, spread diseases that will further weaken or kill a tulip. Remove pest insects by hand or apply a mild pesticide to the tulip to kill off any bugs on the plant and keep the tulip healthy. Check the plant regularly for signs of pest damage, like holes in the leaves or petals.
  
  

Sunlight

• Potted tulips need sunlight to keep growing and sustaining their blossoms. Keep tulips in an area of the house where they receive the appropriate amount of sunlight. Tulips thrive in full, direct sunlight; place tulips in a south-facing window or on a porch where they will get adequate light during the day. A lack of light causes potted tulips to produce weak, wilted growth and die off more quickly than they would otherwise.
  
  

Post-Blossom Wilt

• After tulips finish blooming, the plant begins to wilt. This is part of the natural growth process and not an indication of poor health. The stem and leaves will die and wither as the bulb returns to a dormant state; do not remove the stem or leaves until they have turned completely yellow or brown to allow the plant to take in nutrients from them. Remove the stem and leaves once the bulb is dormant and store it in a cool, dark location.