Culture in open Ground

To achieve maximum results for many years to come, Daffodils should be planted early and sufficiently deep; 5 inches of soil on top of the bulbs in light well drained areas, 4 inches in soil of a heavy nature. They are best planted where they can be left undisturbed and in those places a distance of 6 inches should be allowed between the bulbs. Daffodils benefit from feeding after flowering.

The secret of success in future years depends on deep planting as directed above as shallow planting the covering soil will often dry out during the Spring, therefore there is insufficient moisture to build up the bulbs for the following seasons flowering. The reason for daffodils going blind is, in the majority of cases, due to shallow planting. Plant the bulbs as soon as possible upon arrival.

Culture in Tubs

Daffodils should be planted in deep tube or bowls as soon as possible upon receipt and plunged outside in the garden in a cool spot and covered with 5 inches of soil, leaf mould or peat; the covering soil should be kept damp and in case of a wet spell, the plunge should be covered with a piece of sheeting. If no garden is available, the bowls must be stored in a cool dark shed or garage. A warm place or dry cupboard is not suitable. Provided the bulbs have been planted for no less than 12 to 16 weeks the pots may be brought into a cool greenhouse, cold frame or unheated room indoors near the light by early January. Daffodils should not be forced. A temperature of 45-50 °F is ample and plenty of fresh air is necessary for the proper development of the plants, until the flower buds are clearly visible. At this stage they can stand a slightly increased temperature, about 50-55 °F, but require all the time plenty of ventilation and a humid atmosphere. If placed from the plunge direct into the living room, the chances are that the flower stems will become strangled in the neck of the bulbs, while the leaves wither and growth will cease.