Daffodils: planting time & pruning

Virginia
Virginia
Virginia
Virginia

I study plant biotechnology and often find myself confronted with the serious consequences that lack of knowledge and misinformation can have for nature. That is why I am so passionate about bringing people and nature closer together again.

Favourite fruit: raspberries, strawberries and pineapple
Favourite vegetables: courgettes, broccoli and cucumbers

Daffodils can shine in the garden in the spring. But the keys to success are the right time for planting and pruning after flowering.

Daffodils in the garden
The bright blossoms chase away the dreary winter

If you put the bulbs of daffodil (Narcissus) in the ground at the right time, you can enjoy the long stems at Easter, swaying in the first sunshine and heralding the arrival of spring. Here you will find everything about planting in the autumn and spring, as well as how to strengthen the daffodil bulbs for the next year by proper pruning.

Planting daffodil bulbs: the right time for planting

Daffodil bulbs go into the ground in September. This will allow the first roots to form before the first prolonged frost. But in a pinch, planting in the spring is also possible. The bulbs are planted in a sunny to semi-shady location. Normal garden soil is suitable for planting, which can be augmented with a high-quality organic soil such as our peat-free Plantura Organic Flower Compost. Very heavy soil should be mixed with sand. Here is a quick overview of the procedure for planting daffodil bulbs:

  • Planting hole: two to three times as deep as the height of the bulb
  • Planting distance: 12 to 15 cm
  • The bulb goes into the planting hole with the tip facing upwards
  • Fill planting hole loosely with soil
  • In spring moist soil and sunny, in summer dry
Organic Flower Compost, 40L
Organic Flower Compost, 40L
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(5/5)
  • Perfect for all flowering plants in garden beds & pots
  • For beautiful blossoms & healthy plant growth
  • Peat-free & organic soil: CO2-saving composition
£16.99

Planting forgotten daffodil bulbs in the spring

Since we are all only human, it is possible to forget a bulb or two in the cellar. Well-stored bulbs can still be planted in the spring. But the soil must be guaranteed frost-free. In addition, the bulbs are about to sprout. They are more sensitive than usual and must not be damaged. Therefore, when planting, place the bulb particularly carefully in the dug planting pit.

Daffodil sprouting out of the ground through snow
Only when the ground is frost-free should the forgotten bulbs be planted [Photo: Photography – Schmidt/ Shutterstock.com]

Pruning daffodils: timing and procedure

Pruning is not necessary for daffodils. The above-ground part of the plant dies after flowering and resprouts every year. Therefore, cutting back does not lead to a second flowering or stronger shoots in the following year. It can even weaken the plant. To ensure the plant does not unnecessarily lose energy for the winter, it is important to note:

  • Remove flower stem after flowering
  • Remove leaves only when they have yellowed