Dividing Daffodils

Click on this link to read more: GCA Dividing Daffodils by Anne Donnell Smith

Digging Daffodils:  another form of seed share

1.  At about six weeks after blooming when the foliage has begun to yellow, the daffodil bulbs are ready to dig.  It is recommended that daffodils be dug while the foliage is still visible so that one knows where to dig without damaging the bulbs during the lifting  

2. One healthy productive bulb planted in year one may produce up to twenty bulbs by year four.

3. Once the clump of bulbs is lifted from the earth, the bulbs should be teased apart with as little damage to the roots as possible to separate  Note that the variety of bloom should always be marked when dug as they are not distinguishable unless blooming.

4. At this time the separated bulbs can be immediately replanted back into the ground where they will go dormant for the summer and begin their growth cycle come fall
The other option is line the bulbs in a tray to let the bulbs dry in semi shade for three or four days and then bag them in netted bags, pantyhose or any other vessel that allows air circulation through the bag and around the bulbs.  Hang the bags in a cool dry place for the summer.  Come fall clean the residual dirt off the bulbs and replant into the ground.

5. Daffodils do produce seed if fertilized.  The seeds can be found in the ovary at the top of the stem behind the bloom.  It can take up to seven years to get a bloom from seed if properly planted and tended.