Daffodils… plant
now, enjoy later!
Cool nights
in early September summon our attention, hinting that autumn is near. The onset of autumn presents another
gardening “to do” list: continue harvesting veggies, divide and cut back
perennials, plant bulbs for spring bloom.
Daffodils,
along with tulips and grape hyacinths, contribute to the early springtime
kaleidoscope of colors present in our flower beds… a color explosion we eagerly
anticipate as winter begins to release its grip on our gardens. The planning and planting efforts we put
forth in autumn will yield colorful rewards next spring… consider adding a
variety of daffodils to your current design layout. Daffodils (genus Narcissus) are available in creamy whites, saffron yellows, and
two-tone varieties; some are miniatures, while others grow to a height of
twelve inches or more.
If your
garden is a luncheon buffet for deer and rabbits, daffodils are a great alternative
to tulips (a.k.a. “deer candy”). Daffodils contain a natural substance
which is a deterrent to deer and rabbits, so they should not bother the blooms.
Daffodil
bulbs will multiply underground, so every few years, you will have an abundance
of new bulbs begging to be planted in a new location in your garden, or shared
with a friend. Daffodils can thrive in fairly
neutral pH soil (6.0 – 7.0) and aren’t particular about soil type. However, if you have a heavy clay-based soil
in your garden, you may wish to add organic matter (NOT sand) to provide a safe
haven for your bulbs. Ideal planting
depth is 7” – 8” for daffodils and I like to plant in clusters of five to nine
bulbs. Cover with an inch of loose soil
containing organic matter and a sprinkling of granular bulb food. Fill in remaining soil and top with cedar
mulch shavings (2” – 3” layer is desirable); finally, water.
With the
arrival of spring, your newly planted daffodil bulbs will emerge as slender
green leaves, followed by a bounty of blooms for your enjoyment!
M. Lynn
Schmid, Certified Master Gardener
A.A.S. Landscape/Horticulture/Arboriculture
A.A.S. Landscape/Horticulture/Arboriculture
