What do the words Yellow, Wordsworth and Spring have in common? The answer, of course, is daffodils. And since now is the time to plant the bulbs I thought it would be a good idea to feature this comprehensive guide to planting, growing and caring for these members of the Narcissus family. This guide includes design ideas and a gallery of photos and comes from the Garden Design Magazine website.

Daffodils, along with tulips, are one of the most popular springtime bulbs. They are long-lived, bloom for weeks on end, aren?t bothered by deer, thrive both in the garden and in pots, are easy to plant, grow and care for, and offer astounding variety (there are over 25,000 registered cultivars!).

Narcissus ?Pimpernel? is a large cup daffodil with bold, two tone coloring. Photo by: Roger Foley.

Botanical Name:

Narcissus

Zones:

The majority are easy to grow where there is a discernable winter (Zones 4 to 8). Most cultivars can withstand the harsh winters of Zones 2 to 3, and many types (notably those in the divisions Jonquilla and Tazetta) can survive in warmer climates through Zone 9.

Photo by Roger Foley

Bloom time:

Spring

Planting time:

In colder regions, plant bulbs in autumn after the first frost when the soil temperature is cooler but before it freezes. In warmer regions, plant after fall temperatures have become consistent and nights are cool.

Photo by Roger Foley

Exposure:

Grow best in full sun and need plenty of light even after flowering. At least a half-day of sunlight is necessary to produce energy for next year?s bloom.

Height:

6 to 30 inches
Daffodils are recognized for their central cup surrounded by a ring of petals. The most common colors are white and yellow, but there are also some orange, pink and red varieties.

See more at Garden Design Magazine