Daffodils (Narcissus) are long-lived spring bulbs that are planted in fall and multiply into clumps over the years. NC State Extension gives a height of 8 to 30 inches, a width of 6 to 12 inches, USDA zones 4 to 8, and a bloom period of about 2 to 3 weeks. University of Maryland Extension notes that deer, rabbits and squirrels do not eat them, unlike tulips, because daffodils are toxic. All parts are poisonous, and the bulbs are the most toxic part (NC State), so keep them away from pets and children.
Daffodil (Narcissus) at a glance
| Type | Flower |
|---|---|
| Season | Perennial |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Plant spacing | 6 in |
| Row spacing | 8 in |
| Per square foot | 4 |
| Seed depth | 6 in |
| Days to maturity | Blooms the spring after fall planting; bloom lasts about 2–3 weeks |
| How to start | Plant daffodil bulbs in early fall 5–8 inches deep and 6–8 inches apart in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade, leave the foliage until it turns yellow, and keep the bulbs away from pets and children because they are toxic |
| Water | 1 in per week |
These are the same numbers our plant spacing, square foot and harvest date calculators use. See every crop in the plant database.
When to plant daffodil
Plant in fall. Cornell says October is best for spring-flowering bulbs, and Colorado State says plant as early in fall as you can so roots establish before the ground freezes. Daffodils then bloom in late winter to late spring depending on the cultivar and microclimate (NC State, Maryland). Choose early, midseason and late cultivars to stagger bloom over several weeks (Colorado State). Check your frost dates and see the bulb planting guide when planning.
How to plant daffodil
- Depth: sources differ. Iowa State says 6 to 8 inches (3 to 4 times the bulb diameter); NC State says 8 inches; Cornell says the bulb tops should be about 5 inches below the surface and notes narcissi tolerate off-depth planting less well than tulips.
- Spacing: Iowa State says about 6 inches apart; Cornell says about 8 inches, and at least 10 inches for naturalized plantings; NC State suggests groups of at least six, 2 to 3 inches apart.
- Site: full sun to partial shade (NC State); Maryland says best in full sun, and declining bloom usually means too much shade or overcrowding. Cornell says planting under large trees is seldom satisfactory.
- Soil: good drainage is essential; bulb rot may occur in wet soils (NC State), and Cornell says narcissi need perfect drainage and a dry summer. NC State lists acidic soil and tolerates clay, loam and sand.
- Before planting: work slow-release fertilizer into the top 4 to 6 inches of soil (Cornell). Mulch of 2 to 3 inches helps reduce cold damage (Maryland).
Caring for daffodil
After bloom: remove the flower stalk before seed pods form, but leave the foliage until it turns yellow, because it feeds the bulb for next year (Cornell, Maryland, NC State). Cornell says narcissi need 4 to 6 leaves for normal-size bulbs and are fully developed around mid-July; cut the yellowed foliage at ground level and discard it.
Feeding: Cornell says fertilizing at planting improves growth, with the benefit visible in the second year, and that established bulbs can be fed while in bloom, keeping fertilizer off the foliage.
Division: daffodils can grow many years before clumps need dividing (Cornell). If bloom declines, lift clumps after the foliage dies back, separate the bulbs and replant (NC State, Maryland). Maryland sees no advantage to storing them until fall, while Cornell says you may replant immediately or dry and store them in a cool, airy place until fall.
Pests and problems: NC State lists bulb mites, slugs and snails and no serious diseases. Cornell suggests fine wire mesh over beds to keep mice from digging up bulbs. See the pest identifier.
Companion plants
| Grow nearby | Early tulips, grape hyacinth and other spring bulbs, and perennials whose foliage will hide fading daffodil leaves |
|---|---|
| Keep apart | Wet clay soil, heavy shade and root-filled ground under big trees |
Wear gloves when handling, since the sap can cause skin irritation (NC State). Check other pairings with the companion plant finder.
Common problems
| Problem | What you see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| No flowers | Leaves but no blooms | Too much shade or overcrowding (Maryland); cutting leaves too early reduces the bulb. Dig, separate and replant crowded clumps. |
| Bulb rot | Soft bulbs, poor growth | Wet soil; improve drainage before planting (NC State). |
| Bulbs dug up | Missing bulbs or holes | Rodents; cover beds with fine wire mesh (Cornell). |
| Slugs and snails | Chewed, slimed leaves | Listed by NC State as occasional problems; see the pest identifier. |
Not sure what you are looking at? The plant problem identifier ranks likely causes from the symptoms you see.
When and how to harvest
Daffodils are grown for their flowers rather than a harvest. They make good cut flowers, but the cut stems release sap that can irritate skin, so handle with gloves. Safety: NC State says all parts are poisonous, with bulbs the most toxic; symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and salivation, and it lists them as a problem for cats, dogs and horses. Never store bulbs where they could be mistaken for onions.
Plan your daffodil
- Plant spacing calculator: how many plants fit your bed
- Planting calendar: sowing and transplant dates for your frost dates
- Frost dates by ZIP code: your last spring and first fall frost
- Harvest date calculator: when your crop will be ready
Frequently asked questions
How far apart should I plant daffodils?
Space daffodils 6 inches apart in rows 8 inches apart. In a square foot garden, plant 4 per square foot.
How deep do I plant daffodil bulbs?
Plant 5 to 8 inches deep, depending on the source: Iowa State 6 to 8 inches, NC State 8 inches, Cornell about 5 inches to the bulb top.
How long do daffodils take to grow?
They bloom the spring after fall planting, and the bloom lasts about 2 to 3 weeks (NC State).
How much water do daffodils need?
About 1 inch of water a week, from rain and watering combined. Water well after planting in fall; they need moisture during growth but good drainage (NC State).
How deep should I plant daffodil bulbs?
Sources give 5 to 8 inches: Iowa State says 6 to 8, NC State 8, and Cornell about 5 to the top of the bulb.
When can I cut back daffodil leaves?
Wait until the foliage turns yellow, because the leaves feed the bulb for next year's flowers.
Are daffodils poisonous?
Yes. All parts are toxic and the bulbs are the most poisonous; keep them away from pets and children.