How to Transplant Narcissus Bulbs

You may move narcissus bulbs when their garden becomes overcrowded.

Narcissus is the botanical name of the genus of flowers better known as daffodils. The plants in this genus grow from underground storage structures called bulbs, which you can transplant easily. Transplant narcissus bulbs after the plants finish flowering and begin to become dormant, which is when their foliage turns yellow. Depending on climate, narcissus dormancy begins in summer or fall.

Things You'll Need

• Garden fork
• Tiller
• Organic matter
• Complete fertilizer
• Garden hose, watering can or container

Instructions

1. Lift the narcissus bulbs carefully from the soil with a garden fork. The bottom of each bulb is most likely about 6 inches below the soil's surface.

2. Brush off the soil from the bulbs, and pull off the yellow foliage. Pull apart bulbs that are stuck together. Narcissus propagates by producing new, small bulbs attached to older bulbs. You may plant the small bulbs, although they may not bloom for one or two years. Discard bulbs that are rotted, damaged or shriveled.

3. Till the soil of the new planting bed -- which should be in full or partial sun -- to a depth of 10 inches. Work in 3 to 4 inches of organic matter such as compost or leaf mold. Also, work in a complete fertilizer, adhering to the application rates stated on its label.

4. Plant the bulbs twice as deep as they are in height. For example, plant bulbs that are 2 1/2 inches tall so their tips are 5 inches beneath the soil surface. Space bulbs about 6 to 12 inches apart. Water the planted bulbs' soil with 1 inch of water.

References

• North Dakota State University; Hortiscope; Questions on Bulbs; Ron Smith
• Stephen F. Austin State University; Go Natural with Narcissus; Greg Grant
• "Ask a Master Gardener"; Daffodils, Jonquils and Narcissus; Feb. 10, 2010
• Missouri State University Extension; Spring-Flowering Bulbs: Daffodils; David Trinklein