Tis the Season to Plant Daffodils
By Patty Cressman
Grayson County Master Gardener
Daffodil planting season is upon us. The countdown to plant daffodils begins as soon as the turkey has been cleared off the table Thanksgiving Day, and the window of opportunity lasts during the month of December.
The beauty of gardening is the anticipation of the next season, especially spring! Daffodils are often the first plants to bloom in early spring. In fact, some varieties bloom in early February. Unlike tulips, daffodils will perennialize in North Texas. Daffodil bulbs do not have to be pre-chilled like tulips and hyacinths.
There are 50 species of daffodils and over 10,000 varieties. The origin of the daffodil is unknown. During ancient times it was called the Narcissus plant. The American Cancer Association uses the daffodil as their official symbol. The daffodil symbolizes hope, and rebirth at the end of the gloomy winter. The yellow daffodil symbolizes positivity, and the trumpet shaped flower symbolizes happiness. The daffodil has six petals, and in numerology the number six is regarded as the most harmonious.
When buying bulbs, pick bubs that feel solid, not mushy. Avoid bulbs that have any indentations or discoloration. Each bulb will produce one flower. Daffodils tolerate the heavy clay soil. They require minimal care and are dormant during the most challenging summer weather.
Plant the bulbs at a depth of three times the diameter of the bulb, which is approximately six inches deep. Daffodils look best when scattered in flower beds. Daffodils will multiply providing a lusher flower bed each season. After the plant has bloomed do not cut the foliage until the leaves begin to turn yellow and fall over.
Daffodils are beneficial plants. They can be planted in a circle at the drip line of a fruit or nut tree to prevent grass from competing with the tree for water and soil nutrients. The daffodil bulb repels digging animals such as gophers and moles. The above-ground leaves repel deer and other browsers.
Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Daffodil Planting Season!
______________________________________________________________________________Grayson County Master Gardeners Association is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization sponsored by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Reach us by email at mastergardeners@co.grayson.tx.us, by phone 903-813-4204, our web page https://txmg.org/grayson/, or our Facebook group.