Daffodil

(Narcissus species)

Contact: Diane Relf, Extension Specialist, Environmental Horticulture

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Upright, slender medium green leaves. Flower consists of a flattened round base (perianth), with wavy margin, and cup shaped center (corona) sometimes in a contrasting color.

FLOWER COLORS:

Yellow, White

AFTER FLOWERING:

May discard or hold bulbs in cool place and plant outside in spring as soon as soil can be worked. May rebloom following spring, but more likely will take two years to rebloom.

AVAILABLE:

December to May

CONTAINER:

Small planter.

LIGHT:

Low, medium, high. Tolerates most light levels well.

WATER:

Normal. Water thoroughly, let soil dry to touch to a soil depth of 1/2".

TEMPERATURE:

Cool. 50 - 60 (degrees F) days, 45 - 55 nights.

HUMIDITY:

Average

FERTILIZER:

Not needed while in flower

SOIL MIX:

Well drained soil mix.

PROPOGATION:

Bulbs

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely plant with healthy foliage and bright, clear colored flowers. New flower buds are desirable. Check for insects. Avoid plants with disease or insect damage.

CARE:

Very challenging. Attractive while in bloom. Difficult to cultivate year round and rebloom. Usually discarded after blooms fade.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

Many cultivars are available

PROBLEMS:

Bulb toxicity reported: Proper plant I.D. important. House plants are not to be eaten by people or pets.
Bulb rot: Provide adequate drainage. Do not let plant sit it water.

COMMENTS:

Also a popular cut flower in mixed spring arrangements. May buy bulbs to force in planters in the home during winter. Must meet cold treatment (for 12 - 16 weeks) in order to flower inside.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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