How to Grow Daffodils In Hot Climates

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By Tyla Mac
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Grow Daffodils In Hot Climates

Unfortunately many gardeners in the deep South believe that the climate is too hot for growing daffodils or they've given up after choosing the wrong varieties. Even if you live in a hot gulf coast planting zone there are narcissus varieties you can grow. If you've tried to grow daffodils in your hot southern garden and been disappointed,I hope this article will convince you to give narcissus growing another try.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Daffodil bulbs, digging tools,bulb food

Step 1

Narcissus Jonquilla

Choose the best varieties for your area. Most types of narcissus will grow in USDA planting Zones 7 and 8. In zones 9 and 10 jonquilla(jonquils) and tazetta types will be the best performers in your mild winter garden.
Step 2

Trumpet Daffodil

Trumpet and large-cupped daffodils will do fine in the cooler winters of zones 7 and 8. In warmer coastal areas it helps to give these types a cold treatment in the fridge for a few weeks before planting.Treat them as annuals and get fresh bulbs every year.
Step 3

Plant daffodil bulbs at the proper time for your area. October and November are best for zone 7 and 8 gardens, in zones 9 and 10 December into January is best. If you've given them a cold treatment ,you can cheat a little on the timing. Jonquillas and tazettas don't need cold treating.
Step 4

Plant your daffodil bulbs six inches deep and give them a low nitrogen plant food. Make sure they don't touch each other. Plant in groups of at least five to ten bulbs.

Tips & Warnings

Jonquils, tazettas and species(wild) types do well in all southern planting zones.
Paperwhites can be grown outdoors as annuals in frost-free areas.They do not need cold treating.
Poeticus and large flowering double types are late bloomers that need cold winters. They won't stand up to Spring rain and Summer heat.
Plant your bulbs in clumps or bunches for the most attractive appearance.
Narcissus bulbs need good drainage. If you have heavy clay soil,plant in raised beds.
Give established plantings of daffodils a feeding with a plant food that is rich in potassium. I like using kelp meal.
Remember, daffodil bulbs are poisonous! Keep them away from children and pets.
If you store bulbs in the refrigerator,keep them away from fruit,especially apples and pears.

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Comments

TomCom said

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on 12/30/2008 Here, in southern Georgia, there's plenty of sand for good drainage. I just might try planting some Daffodils. How about Crocus?
Thanks for the tips!