Daffodil
Narcissus pseudonarcissus
Britain's favourite spring bulb, daffodils produce cheerful yellow and white trumpets from February to April. Native to western Europe including parts of the UK, they naturalise freely in grass, woodland edges, and borders. Extremely reliable and long-lived, a single planting can flower for decades. Over 13,000 cultivars are registered, from miniature Tete-a-Tete to large trumpet varieties.
How to grow daffodil
Plant bulbs in September or October, setting them at a depth of two to three times the bulb's height. Choose a spot with good drainage — waterlogged soil causes rot. Daffodils tolerate most soil types and perform well in partial shade beneath deciduous trees. Space bulbs 10-15 cm apart and scatter them randomly for a natural look when naturalising in grass. Feed with a potassium-rich fertiliser as flowers fade. Allow foliage to die back naturally for at least six weeks after flowering — do not tie leaves in knots or cut them early. Divide congested clumps every four to five years once flowering declines. Lift, separate, and replant immediately at the same depth.
Pruning
No pruning needed. Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed production but leave all foliage in place until it has yellowed and collapsed naturally, typically by mid-June.
Propagation
- Offsets (divide clumps in late summer)
- Twin-scaling
- Seed (takes 4-5 years to flower)
Common problems
- Narcissus fly (Merodon equestris)
- Narcissus bulb rot
- Blindness (failure to flower from overcrowding)
- Basal rot
Good companions
Related guides
How to Grow Daffodils: UK Guide
A practical guide to growing daffodils in UK gardens. Covers planting depth and timing, naturalising in grass, division, and the best varieties.
When to Plant Daffodil Bulbs in the UK
Practical UK guide to planting daffodil bulbs. Covers best planting times, depth, naturalising in grass, top varieties, and aftercare for repeat flowering.
When to Plant Spring Bulbs in the UK
Find out when to plant spring bulbs across the UK. Covers daffodils, tulips, crocuses, hyacinths, alliums, and snowdrops with exact timing by type.