Overview

As the weather gets cooler and fewer flowers are blooming, it may be hard to picture your spring landscape. But autumn is the perfect time to add color to next year's garden by planting daffodil bulbs. A little work now will reward you with bright yellow blooms come March and April.

Spring daffodils

Requirements

Daffodils need a well-drained, sunny location. Most require at least 5 hours of sunlight a day.

Where to Plant

Daffodils can be planted in a shrub border, perennial garden or in a bed of groundcover plants. Plant in groups of three to 12 bulbs of one variety for the most natural effect.

When to Plant

Daffodils need time to develop their root systems before the advent of winter weather. The University of Missouri Extension recommends mid-October as a good cut-off date for planting daffodils. In warmer areas, planting time may be extended by a month or so.

Planting

Dig holes which will allow the bulbs to rest about 6 inches below the surface. Space bulbs 6 to 12 inches apart, depending on the variety. If desired, mix a complete fertilizer in with the soil. Daffodils do not require heavy fertilization.

Watering

Daffodils need moisture to establish good root growth. Water the bulbs throughout the fall if there is not adequate rainfall.

Indoor Daffodils

If you find you still have daffodil bulbs after it is too late to plant them, you can still enjoy them by potting them up to enjoy inside during the winter. See Resources for "Indoor Daffodils".