Narcissus & daffodil bulbs

The best time to plant daffodil and narcissus bulbs in the UK is from September to November, ideally during early to mid-autumn. Planting early gives the bulbs plenty of time to develop roots before winter and prepare for flowering in spring. September and October are particularly good months, but healthy bulbs can still be planted later in autumn if the ground is workable and not waterlogged or frozen.

Plant daffodil bulbs with the pointed end facing upwards, in fertile, well-drained soil. Dig a hole around three times the height of the bulb, place the bulb in the bottom and cover it with soil, gently firming afterwards. Narcissi look most natural planted in groups or drifts rather than in straight rows. They can be grown successfully in borders, containers, lawns and other areas where the soil does not remain waterlogged.

As a general rule, plant daffodil bulbs at a depth of around three times the height of the bulb, which is usually approximately 10–15cm for standard-sized bulbs. Measure from the top of the bulb to the soil surface. Planting at the correct depth helps bulbs establish well and can encourage reliable flowering in future years.

Daffodils and narcissi usually flower in the UK from February to May, depending on the variety and seasonal conditions. Early-flowering narcissi can brighten the garden from late winter, while mid-season and late varieties continue the display well into spring. Planting a mixture of early, mid-season and late-flowering varieties is a simple way to enjoy daffodils over a much longer period.

Once daffodils have finished flowering, remove the faded flowers but leave the stems and foliage to die back naturally. The green leaves continue to photosynthesise and replenish the bulb for next year's flowers. Avoid cutting, tying or folding the leaves while they are still green. Once the foliage has turned yellow and comes away easily, it can be removed.

Yes. Most daffodils are hardy perennial bulbs and can flower again for many years when planted in suitable conditions. Established bulbs often produce offsets and gradually form larger clumps. For reliable repeat flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Yes, daffodils grow very well in pots and containers. Choose a container with good drainage holes and use a free-draining peat-free compost. Plant bulbs with their pointed ends upwards, positioning them fairly close together for a full display without allowing them to touch. Smaller varieties are particularly well suited to pots, while taller narcissi can make impressive displays in larger containers.

Daffodils that produce leaves but no flowers are often described as ‘blind’. This can happen if bulbs are planted too shallowly, become overcrowded, experience very dry conditions, receive insufficient light or have their foliage removed too soon after flowering. Older congested clumps can be lifted and divided once the foliage starts to die back.

Yes. Daffodil and narcissus bulbs can usually be left in the ground all year round and are well suited to naturalising. After flowering, allow the leaves to die back naturally and leave the bulbs undisturbed. Over time they can produce offsets and develop into larger clumps, giving you an increasingly generous spring display.