Garden Sense
Daffodils Aren’t Daffy
One of the most popular spring bulbs is the daffodil. Daffodils come in whites, yellows, red and peach to pink colored. The flowers can be single or double bloom even multiple flowers per stem.
Here are some FAQ about this welcomed spring arriver.
Do daffodils produce a scent?
Yes, some do especially jonquils.
What is the difference between a narcissus, daffodils and jonquils?
Narcissus is the Latin name covering this group of plants including daffodils and jonquils. These flowers are classified by a measurement of their petals and cups. Jonquils usually have several flowers per stem.
Why think about these flowers now?
Now is the time to plan where to plant your bulbs according to light, exposure and soil conditions. By checking these areas now you’re not guessing come fall when the sun is positioned a little differently in the sky.
Daffodils need at least 5 to 6 hours of sunlight. Some varieties are more shade tolerant than others.
What does naturalizing with daffodils mean?
Naturalizing an area means to plant without structure. No neat rows or patterns of flowers. The best way to achieve this effect is to toss the bulbs around the area and plant them where fall.
What are good companion plants?
Tulips, Fritillaria, Hyacinth, Muscari, Crocus
Is it true animals avoid daffodil bulbs?
It is true! Daffodil bulbs contain a toxic crystal that animals will avoid eating.
How do you propagate daffodils?
Daffodils will self-propagate by seed and division but clumps need to be divided every few years. To divide them, dig out the entire clump and split it into thirds and replant each section.
How do I store my bulbs until planting time?
Store bulbs in a cool dry place below 70 degrees. High temperatures can damage the tender plant stored inside.
You can’t wait until fall to plant some daffodils? Okay, how do you feel about summer flowering bulbs like daylily, dahlia, gladiolus? These can be planted now for summer enjoyment.
For more information, visit the American Daffodil Society’s website at http://.daffodilusa.org
Check out or get involved with The American Cancer Society’s Daffodil Days annual fundraiser Daffodil Days.
Got a gardening question and need answers? Drop me a line at cindy@cindysrecipesandwritings.com and I will answer it in an upcoming column.
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