How to Troubleshoot Narcissus Bulbs
There are several types of narcissi ranging from the classic, deep throated daffodil to the sweetly scented jonquil. All narcissi are grown from true bulbs which are globular, underground structures that store nutrients. Often things go wrong with a bulb that prevent it from spouting. The reasons a bulb doesn't sprout are varied and range from water management to old, overcrowded plantings. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Dig up the bulbs to check for rot. If a bulb is dark brown and mushy, it won't sprout and should be discarded. Narcissi require planting sites with good drainage to prevent rot. You can improve your soil's drainage by adding sand and organic matter like compost or peat moss to your planting beds.
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Time the amount of exposure to sunlight your narcissus planting bed receives. Narcissi require at least six hours of full sun during the growing season to thrive.
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Mix fertilizer thoroughly with soil. Large amounts of fertilizer in direct contact with the bulb can kill roots and cause rot. If you use fertilizer prior to planting, mix it in well with the soil.
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Plant bulbs pointed side up. On the bottom of the bulb is a flat, ring-like structure known as the basal plate. This is where the roots sprout, and if you planted the basal plate facing upward, your narcissi won't grow. Always plant bulbs with the pointed end up.
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Dig up and divide your bulbs every five to 10 years. Overcrowded bulbs can cause poor growth and small flowers. Carefully dig up the bulbs when the foliage begins to yellow. Wash them off gently with the hose and leave them in a dark, cool and well ventilated place to dry. Once they are dry you can separate the offsets from the main bulb. Store all bulbs in a cool, dry location until you plant them again in the fall.
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References
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