A host of golden daffodils; Beside the lake, beneath the trees, Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.~ William Wordsworth
Blooming just after the snow crocus, daffodils seem to be the official flower to welcome spring. Beautiful and cheerful in varying shades ranging from bright yellow to white, you can’t help but smile when you see them. They are easy to care for, spread abundantly and with little help will bloom vigorously year after year. A big bonus in our area…the deer don’t eat them!
Bulbs are planted in the fall, about 2 to 4 weeks before the ground freezes. Plant at least 3 to 4 inches deep; this is especially important where winters are severe. Plant them about 3 to six inches apart so they have room to multiply.
If you didn’t get bulbs planted last fall you can always buy the potted ones that are already blooming and carefully plant them. Deadhead the blooms as they fade, being sure to trim back to the base of the plant. It is important not to cut the leaves back until they are completely yellowed, about six weeks after the plant is done flowering. This stores energy in the bulb for the next year’s flowers. Also, make sure they don’t get too dried out with the spring winds. If your established bulbs seem crowded or not blooming well, in the fall dig them up and divide them so they have some breathing room. This will need to be done every five years or so.
Spring flowers are in blossom all over. The whole world’s a choir – and singing! Spring warblers are filling the forest with sweet arpeggios. Lilacs are exuberantly purple and perfumed, and cherry trees fragrant with blossoms. Oh, get up, dear friend, my fair and beautiful lover – come to me! ~ Song of Solomon 2:12-13
