How to Separate Daffodil Bulbs

Daffodils (Narcissus) have hardy bulbs that can withstand winters underground in most areas. However, they self-propagate; in time, one bulb will turn into many. They sometimes separate on their own, but generally, they remain attached to the original parent bulbs. Therefore, every few years, the garden becomes overcrowded and the daffodils bloom a bit less than they did because they are sharing the same nutrients. When this happens, it is time to separate--or divide--your daffodil bulbs and replant them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shovel or garden rake

1. Cut off the foliage so that only a few inches of stem remains. Wait until the plant yellows in the fall to do this so it has sufficient time to absorb sunlight and convert it into sugar. Daffodils store this sugar in the bulbs for next year's growth and propagation.

2. Remove the daffodil bulbs out of the soil carefully. Dig straight down with a garden rake or shovel for 10 inches around the entire clump of plants. Daffodil bulbs are typically buried about 8 inches beneath the soil. Since you don't want to harm them, going a bit deeper will ensure safe clearance. Pull down on the shovel in several places. This will lift the clump of bulbs out of the soil.

3. Hold onto the remaining foliage and shake off excess dirt. You can also brush the dirt off the clump of bulbs with your hands.

4. Grab a hold of the clump of bulbs. Then use your other hand to grab onto just one outer bulb and pull. This will separate the outer bulb from the rest of the bulbs.

5. Continue to pull one bulb off at a time. Do not use a knife. If needed, you can soak the clump of bulbs in water for few minutes to help loosen the bulbs from one another.

References

• How to Divide Daffodil Bulbs