Herbs in the Landscape
Daffodil (Narcissus spp.)
Daffodils beckon spring with cheery yellow trumpet-shaped blooms. They are a popular, easy-to-grow perennial herbaceous bulb. Most have lovely yellow blossoms, though some are white, orange, pink, and bi-color. They will bloom for about six weeks. Daffodils are native to Europe and North Africa. They require a cold-dormant time and are best planted in mid to late autumn to emerge in early spring, reaching peak bloom about a month before the average last frost date. Plant the pointed end up about 3-6 inches deep. They grow to about 6-30 inches tall and 6-12 inches wide. They thrive best in full or partial sun and in moist, but well-drained soil. They are perennial plants in USDA zones 4-8. For best impact, plant them in groups of at least 3-12.
Daffodils look great in borders, in perennial beds, and with groundcovers. They are charming when planted in front of evergreens. They will naturalize under deciduous trees, in lawns, and in meadows if they are not mowed until the foliage has died. Leave the foliage in place until it begins to yellow to give the bulbs time to restore. The leaves should be left undisturbed for at least eight weeks after the flower has bloomed. A colony of naturalized daffodils thrives for decades when given a light annual feeding of a bulb fertilizer. Although they are beautiful flowers, daffodils are toxic to both humans and pets. The natural toxins in daffodils make them less likely to serve as food for deer, rabbits, and other animals. Planting daffodils among other vulnerable plants, such as tulips, helps protect them. Daffodils have few pest and disease problems.
Daffodils are delightful as cut flowers in arrangements and can last up to two weeks. To help the flower last longer, put the daffodils in a vase of lukewarm water immediately after cutting. If adding them to a bouquet of mixed flowers, allow daffodils to leach their sap in separate water for 6-24 hours because their sap will diminish the longevity of other flowers. Daffodils are enjoyed for their ornamental appeal. They are not edible. Although all parts are toxic and no longer consumed, there are reports of historic folk medicinal uses. In the language of flowers, they are said to represent rebirth, renewal, and new beginning.
