Daffodil care guide
Narcissus
Also known as: Narcissus, Japanese narcissus, Trumpet daffodil
Pets and children
Considered toxic
The whole plant, especially the bulb, contains lycorine, linked to vomiting, drooling and diarrhea in dogs and cats, and people have been poisoned by mistaking the leaves for garlic chives; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Daffodil
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- From sprouting until the leaves die back, water thoroughly once the topsoil dries, as a guide; as they yellow, cut back and keep the pot dry out of rain over summer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- After planting the bulb is rooting, so generally water when the soil dries; in the ground, rain is usually enough.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Leaves grow in winter and some types bloom; water pots thoroughly in the morning when the soil dries, as a guide.
Light and placement for Daffodil
A sunny spot from fall to spring is the guide, as low light means fewer flowers; it rests over summer once the leaves die, so keep pots dry in shade out of the rain.
Overwintering Daffodil
Overwintering guide: −10°C (14°F) or above
Cold-hardy: it generally overwinters outdoors with no protection, and bulbs in the ground can usually stay put for several years, while pots sit under the eaves so the soil does not freeze solid.
Fertilizing and repotting Daffodil
Fertilizer
Mix slow-release fertilizer in at planting and give liquid feed about twice a month from after bloom until the leaves die back; none during the summer rest.
When to repot
Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Daffodil
- Cutting or tying the leaves while green means no flowers next year.
- Left for years, crowded bulbs produce only leaves.
- Bulbs rot in soil kept wet through summer.
Tips for growing Daffodil
- Plant two to three bulb-heights deep for a stable, free-flowering clump.
- Japanese narcissus planted in September or October blooms from around year's end.
- The leaves resemble garlic chives, so plant it away from edible herbs and vegetables.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
