One of the most cheerful and plentiful blooms of Spring is the daffodil. Also known as jonquils, narcissus and paper whites, daffodils are a type of flowering plant that belongs to the Amaryllis family. It comes in a variety of colors and there are over 1,300 hybrids. One of the reasons why daffodils are so prolific is that they are easy to grow. With a little care after blooming, they will continue to welcome spring to your garden for years.
There are several things to remember if you want to encourage their return next spring. Cutting the stalk back after the bloom has faded, will allow the plant to store nutrients in the bulb, for next year. However, the messy looking leaves need to remain in place until they turn yellow. Leaves also store nutrients. For a neater look you can section the leaves off, tie with a rubber band and lay flat. Adding a thick layer of mulch around the daffodils keeps the plant cool and helps set the buds.
The American Daffodil Society notes that daffodil bulbs multiply every year or two. Ultimately the bulbs may be competing for nutrients and space. Every five or ten years, after the foliage has yellowed, the bulbs can be dug up, divided and replanted. Plant them six inches apart and six inches deep. Do not water them now, wait till the Fall. Or you can store the bulbs and replant in the fall. An old mesh onion or fruit bag is a good container for storage. Keep it in a cool dry location.
Some interesting tidbits regarding this happy spring flower include:
• Squirrels won’t eat the bulbs;
• Daffodils do contain poisonous crystals, so don’t plant them where dogs are likely to dig;
• Because of the toxic sap in their stem, do not mix daffodils with other flowers in a vase;
• A gift of daffodils is said to ensure happiness;
• Scientists have discovered narciclasine, a natural compound found in daffodil bulbs may be therapeutic in treating some types of cancer.
A final note: Save the date! Saturday, May 7, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. The Garden Club of Orange will hold their annual May Market on the town green. Perennials & plants from member gardens, as well as window boxes, annuals, garden aprons and home-baked goods will be on sale.