What a tragedy: the daffodils have faded. Now they look miserable. The flowers are brown and the leaves droop limply. Is this the end of daffodils? Off to the compost?

Flowering time of daffodils

Daffodils bloom at different times depending on the species. Most types of daffodils flower between March and April. But there are also specimens that bloom as early as February or are only present with their flowers at the beginning of May.

Prune after flowering - but do it right!

After the flowers have withered, they should be cut off. This prevents the seeds from forming. Of course this is not a must. But the seed formation costs a daffodil a lot of energy. The onion would need the energy to easily sprout again next year.

Don't cut the leaves too early

But don't get too excited! The leaves should not be cut off at the same time. They can only be removed when they are brown and dried up. Before that, the bulbs absorb nutrients from the leaves from the underground. If you cut off the leaves too early, you have to expect the daffodil to die. Usually the leaves are dead by mid-June and you can remove them.

If you are bothered by daffodil leaves hanging down, you can tie them together. This is especially recommended for daffodils, which are in large groups on a lawn or in a bed and create gloomy accents there.

Subtly fertilize after flowering

Another recommendation after flowering is a light fertilizer application. Daffodils in pots in particular should be supplied with a suitable complete fertilizer, for example in liquid form. Outdoor daffodils are also happy if they are fertilized after flowering. The nutrient ration benefits the onions.

Transplant and propagate after flowering

Another measure that can be taken after flowering, but does not have to be, is transplanting or repotting. Potted daffodils should be repotted every year. Daffodils in the bed can stay in the same place for many years. If you want to implement them, you can use them to multiply when the time comes.

This is how the propagation of daffodils after flowering works:

  • best to dig up every 3 to 4 years
  • cut down beforehand
  • Share the spring onions
  • Plant onions separately
  • Plant the onions at a depth of 10 to 15 cm
  • Water well and mulch if necessary

Wait for the seeds after flowering

Not every gardener is bothered by faded daffodils. Some happily await the seeds to propagate the daffodils and possibly breed new varieties. If you do not cut the flower stalk, you will receive the seeds after about 3 weeks.

tips and tricks

Daffodils bloom longer if they are in a cool spot. Temperatures between 10 and 15 °C are ideal for long flowering.

Category:

Vegetable garden