Information About Daffodils

Daffodils are a common in early spring gardens.

Easy to grow and prized for their beauty, daffodils are common in early season gardens and are recognized as one of the first harbingers of spring. They are a good planting choice for a beginning gardener.

Planting

Daffodil bulbs are best planted from mid-October to November. They require a location that receives at least half a day of full sun and good soil drainage. They do not need heavy fertilization. Two to 3 lbs. of a complete 6-24-24 NPK fertilizer is adequate.

Watering

Daffodils need plenty of water to flower properly. Keep the bulbs watered after planting and throughout the fall. In the spring, continue watering while the flowers are active. After the foliage dies back, the plant should remain as dry as possible to allow the bulb to store food for next season's blooming.

Growth and Care

Daffodils need little maintenance during the spring. At the end of their blooming season, allow the foliage to remain dormant for at least eight weeks before removing it from the plant. The foliage is manufacturing food for next season. Every 5 to 10 years, daffodil bulbs need to be dug up, divided and replanted to keep the plants healthy.

Cultivars

Daffodils are classified under 13 descriptive divisions. See your local cooperative extension or plant nursery to find the cultivars that will grow best in your area.

References

• University of Missouri: Spring Flowering Bulbs: Daffodils
• American Daffodil Society: Daffodil Divisions and Cultivars

Resources

• Flowers and Plants Association: Daffodil/Narcissus