Daffodils (Narcissus spp.) are perennial flowers that add color and shape to springtime landscaping. Blooming in various shades of yellow, white, orange, pink and cream, daffodils thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 to 10. Depending on their environment, flowers need a minimal amount of care after fall bulb planting and watering. Do not remove daffodil leaves until they are brown and loose.
As flowers fade in late May into June, daffodil leaves turn yellow and then brown. At the same time, photosynthesis takes place as daylight increases and allows foliage to absorb sunlight. Through this process, light converts to chemical energy, storing it into sugars that feed the plant. Daffodil leaves must absorb enough plant sugars to fortify their bulbs; otherwise, they won't grow or produce as many blooms the following spring. To help this process along, you may remove shriveled flower heads, but the leaves must be fully brown and pull easily out of the ground before they are cut down -- usually six to eight weeks after flowers die.
Premature Leaf Cleanup
Green foliage produces nutrients for daffodil bulbs, whereas weak, malnourished bulbs can shrivel and die, especially in winter. Some bulbs may survive premature leaf cutting, but flowers may not bloom the following spring. Although a common practice, tying daffodils' browning leaves together is not recommended, says the University of Missouri Extension. Tying green or yellow daffodil leaves together leads to filtered light and less food production for bulbs as they become dormant.
Covering Brown Foliage
Tug lightly at brown daffodil leaves to determine whether they are ready for removal. If the leaves are not ready yet, you can partially cover unattractive foliage with spring annuals such as pansies or petunias. Plant other perennials such as peonies, daylilies and hostas to help hide brown daffodil, as well as tulip, leaves. Ferns and other greenery also provide camouflage for gardens and landscapes. Avoid deeply rooted plants, which draw moisture and nutrients away from daffodils. Shallow-rooted trailing plants such as creeping phlox (Phlox stolonifera) and foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia) are suitable ground covers for regenerating bulbs.
Bulb Removal and Storage
Daffodil bulbs may be removed from the ground following their flowering season. During summer dormancy, dig up and wash the bulbs thoroughly. Dry each one separately, and keep the bulbs in an open area for at least one week. Inspect them for mold or rotting -- keep only healthy, firm bulbs. Store them at 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit in a cool, dark, dry place, such as a cellar, garage or shed. Flower bulbs must have good air circulation to prevent mold and rotting. Place them in paper or netted bags that hang from the ceiling. Screens with tray bottoms are also useful.
- The New Sunset Western Garden Book; Kathleen Norris Brenzel, Editor
- American Daffodil Society: Guidelines for Growing Beautiful Daffodils in Your Garden
- Mississippi State University Extension: Don’t Touch Those Daffodil Leaves
- National Gardening Association: Plant Care Guides: Daffodil
- University of Missouri Extension: Spring Flowering Bulbs: Daffodils
- University of Illinois Extension: Bulbs & More: Planting & Care
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