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The first green shoots of daffodils poking up through the brown dirt are one of my favorite signs of spring. They are a very cheerful flower, and there are many different varieties. The colors of daffodils range from the bright yellow that most of us are familiar with to white to vibrant orange varieties. There are also many different forms of daffodils, as well. A good way to decide which kind you would prefer is to go to your local nursery or to a flower show, where you will usually see some spectacular specimens.
Daffodils are also one of the easiest flowers to grow. They are wonderful for a beginning gardener, and provide a lot of satisfaction for relatively easy work. Children could easily grow daffodils with a little help from their parents. They can be grown all over the U.S., but it is a good idea to check the hardiness zone for any variety of daffodils that you choose to purchase. They will have flowers on them for at least six weeks and often as long as six month, depending on where you are located and what type you choose.
Daffodils are most commonly sold in bulb form, and experts say that while daffodil bulbs are not shipped until usually September it is important to pre-order them the previous spring, in April or May. By pre-ordering, you should get the best stock. The cost of daffodils depends entirely on choice. Bulbs can cost as little as $1 a piece or as much as $100. It all depends on which variety is chosen.
Daffodils can be planted both outside and in pots. When planting outside, they should be planted in the ground after it cools, usually in October or November. Experts differ on how deep they should be planted, but most seem to recommend that they be planted at least 6-8” deep, with the pointy end up! You should choose a well-drained and sunny area. Daffodils loved water and need to be watered well. They are spreaders, so plant the bulbs at least 6” apart. Use compost or planting mix when you first place them in the ground. They are tolerant of most soils, but it does not hurt to give them the best start possible. They prefer soil that is somewhat acidic, so adding some iron to your soil is probably a good idea. The fertilizers in the soil will nourish the bulb until the spring, when it will sprout up through the ground. You will want to fertilize your daffodils when they begin sprouting and again when they begin to flower. After the flowers fade and quit blooming, wait to cut the foliage away until you are cleaning up your yard for the fall season. The bulbs are still using those leaves and stalks to gain nutrient for the upcoming winter.
To plant daffodils in pots, it is recommended that you use two gallon pots and plant no more that five bulbs in each pot. The bulbs should be planted about a third of the way down in the pot. Water them well, and add some iron to your potting mix. Planting should be done in the fall, and the pots should be stored in a cool, dry place for the winter. In the spring, take the pots out and begin to water them well. After the daffodils begin to flower, fertilize them again.
Here are a few more tips about planting daffodils:
-Daffodils can be left in the ground or in a pot for 3-5 years.
-Try to avoid using fertilizer with a lot of nitrogen, as daffodils don’t like it.
-The two biggest problems with planting daffodils are also the easiest to solve. They are not planting them deep enough in the soil and having soil that does not have enough nutrients. Experiment with what works the best for your particular area.
-Daffodils make great borders and are also ideal for plating in hilly areas.
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