The Botanical Diary
D
Flowers

Daffodil

Narcissus pseudonarcissus
Also known asdaffodil, narcissus, jonquil

Daffodils should not be placed with other cut flowers in a vase as they release toxins.

Regions
all regions
Colour
yellow, white, cream
Daffodil (daffodil, narcissus, jonquil)
🌸
Bloom
April–May
☀️
Light
Full sun / напівтінь
💧
Watering
Moderate
📏
Height
0,25–0,5 m
❄️
Hardiness
Zone 4

The daffodil is one of the most beloved early spring plants, bringing the first joy to gardens after a long winter. This colourful perennial originates from the Pyrenees and Western Europe, where it has grown in natural conditions for many centuries. Cultivated by humankind for over five hundred years, it has become a symbol of spring in many cultures, and in Ukrainian villages it is also called the "golden bell".

The daffodil is easily recognised by its characteristic flower structure: a yellow, white or cream perianth surrounded by a trumpet-shaped corona that appears extraordinarily elegant. There are many varieties, ranging from classic bright yellow blooms to delicate bicoloured forms with white petals and yellow centres. Each bulb produces several flowers annually, arranged singly or in clusters depending on the variety, flowering from April to May and providing an incomparable fragrance.

In the garden, the daffodil is a versatile helper for spring displays. It looks splendid in groups across lawns, beneath trees and shrubs, in rock gardens and mixed borders. The plant is undemanding of growing conditions, thriving equally well in sunny locations and partial shade. In spring during emergence, it benefits from nitrogen fertilisation, and after flowering, it is best to leave the foliage on the plant until natural yellowing occurs, allowing the bulb to accumulate nutrients for the next season.

An interesting fact: the daffodil secretes a poisonous sap, so it should never be placed in a vase with other flowers, as they will quickly wilt. However, for rodents, this plant serves as a natural deterrent, making the bulbs perfectly safe to plant in areas where moles and mice may cause damage. If you have not yet placed this enchanting flower in your garden, now is the time to do so!

Location & soil

Daffodil — planting & location

LightFull sun / напівтінь
Soil typeПухкий, рН 6–7
Planting timeAugust–October
Plant spacing0,1–0,15 m
Planting depth15–20 см

Bulbous plant, toxic to rodents.

Water needs

How to water Daffodil

IntensityModerate
FrequencyEvery 7 days (в (під час росту)
Volume8–10
MethodAt the base

Reduce watering after flowering.

Annual care

Fertilizing and pruning: Daffodil

Spring fertilizingNitrogen (when sprouting in spring).
Summer fertilizingNo feeding required.
Autumn fertilizingSuperphosphate after flowering.
Pruning timeПісля пожовтіння листя
Pruning typeSanitary

Cut back foliage after it yellows.

Cold hardiness

Daffodil — winter hardiness & care

Hardiness zoneZone 4
Winter coverWinter protection not required (Zone 4).
Cover timing
Plant protection

Diseases and pests of Daffodil

Diseases
Нарцисна мухагниль цибулин
Pests
Нарцисна муха
Garden design

What grows well with Daffodil?

Tulip, Hyacinth, Crocus