Planting Daffodils
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I still have daffodils to get into the groung this year. (charlotte ekker wiggins photo)
Planting Daffodils
Oh, my, so many daffodils to still get into the ground and I’m running out of time. Usually I get my daffodil bulbs planted September-November but I’m behind schedule this year. Luckily our ground in mid-Missouri is not frozen so I still have time to get these lovelies into the ground.'
In general, daffodils need 12 weeks exposed to cold temperatures around freezing. These temperatures stimulate a bio-chemical response that generates root growth and gets flowers started.
Here are some tips if you’re joining me getting daffodil bulbs planted:
I ordered my bulbs in spring for fall delivery from a reputable provider. If you are buying bulbs from a nursery or garden center, select healthy, firm bulbs, the larger the bulbs the better.
Plant daffodil bulbs in the fall before the ground freezes, ideally 2-4 weeks before the first frost date in your area. However, if you miss the fall window, you can still plant them in winter before the ground becomes too hard.
Daffodils prefer well-drained soil and full to partial sunlight. Choose a location with good drainage to prevent water logging, This can cause bulb rot.
Ensure the soil is loose, well-draining, and amended with organic matter like compost. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 6-8 inches.
Plant bulbs at a depth about three times the bulb's height. Place them with the pointed end facing up.
Space bulbs several inches apart to allow them room to grow and spread. If you want a more dramatic show, plant bulbs close together remembering you may have to move them in a few years when they stop blooming because they are growing too close.
Dig a hole or trench for the bulbs. You can plant them individually or in groups. After placing the bulbs, cover them with soil and gently press down to remove air pockets.
Remember to sprinkle the holes with bone meal to feed bulbs as they grow.
After planting, water the area thoroughly to settle the soil and provide initial moisture to the bulbs.
Apply a layer of mulch uch as shredded leaves to help insulate the soil and regulate temperature during winter. This can also prevent frost heaving.
One more note: As our climate continues to warm up, there is less moisture in the form of rain and snow. During the winter, if there's a period of drought or the soil dries out due to lack of snow cover, consider lightly watering the bulbs.
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Charlotte
