Daffodils, the sign that spring has finally sprung. Often referred to as ‘Lent Lily’, this popular flower’s name actually derives from Greek mythology. The flower is a much-loved springtime bloomer and brings joy to many, but knowing exactly how to plant them, look after them and all of the intricacies can be daunting to a beginner. Here at Gardeners Dream, we want to offer up our expertise and guidance, so that your daffodils are guaranteed to be ‘fluttering and dancing in the breeze’ come spring.
First and foremost, it’s important to know when you should be planting your daffodil bulbs to ensure that they’ve been planted in the best conditions. Let’s start with that.
When should I plant my daffodil bulbs?
The prime time to plant your daffodil bulbs is actually in throughout autumn. When it comes to specific timing, planting your bulbs can vary. The recommended time for planting your bulbs is anywhere in November, about two weeks before the ground starts to freeze – you won’t see immediate growth, of course, as daffodils are spring-blooming flowers.
Where should I plant my daffodil bulbs?
Knowing where to plant your daffodil bulbs can be tricky. In the wild we often see daffodils dotted throughout the woodland, but what about in your garden? Luckily, daffodil bulbs aren’t particularly fussy when it comes to the type of soil they’re planted in, but make sure their soil isn’t overly wet. Autumn is the perfect time to plant bulbs as it ensures that the ground is still workable, meaning the soil should have cooled off from summer but hasn’t yet hardened with frost. Well-drained soil is preferable, and your bulbs should be planted somewhere that gets a good amount of full sunshine or light shade.
How deep to plant my daffodil bulbs?
Daffodil bulbs should be planted at a depth of about 10cm. Although the depth of the bulb may not seem important, it can have a detrimental impact on how the flowers emerge. If you plant them too deep, the flowers may never see the light of day come spring. However, if you plant them too shallow, your daffodils may bloom weak and could cause division in the bulbs.
When and how should I feed my daffodils?
Daffodils take best to fertiliser when they’re first planted as bulbs. Make sure that you mix the fertiliser into the soil, paying particular attention to the soil that is beneath the bulbs so that the roots have easy access to the nutrients they need.
How long do potted daffodils last?
Daffodils that have been planted in a pot usually last around two to three weeks in full bloom. As long as the weather conditions permit it, the daffodils will come back year after year.
What to do with daffodil bulbs after they’ve flowered?
If your daffodils have been planted in a container/plant pot they will happily return the following spring. If you deadhead your daffodils, this actually strengthens your flowers for when they return next year. After your daffodils have bloomed and begin to wilt, wait six weeks and proceed to move the pot onto its side and move out of the way (this prohibits excess water). Turn the pot back upright in the autumn.
Daffodils are also great for naturalising your outdoor spaces. They’re reliable bulbs that will keep coming back year after year, so allow them to seed and spread wherever they like to create natural-looking drifts of colour in springtime.
Now you know everything about Daffodils and how to plant them, you’re ready to get gardening! Here at Gardeners Dream, we stock a diverse range of autumn bulbs, so there’s no need to stop gardening just because summer is over. If you’d like to explore more of our autumn bulbs we have an extensive range of delightful choices including tulips, narcissus and crocus bulbs, to name just a few.
