Daffodils

[John_NY]

I have several clumps of daffodils. They come up every year but, for the last few years, the don't flower. I think they're too crowded. They are now about 2 inches out of the ground. Could I dig them now, and carefully thin them, or do I have to wait until the foliage dies back? The only problem I have with that is the foliage dries and then disappears. I wouldn't know precisely where to dig. I suppose I could put a few stakes around the clumps.
I also have the same problem with some Callas.

[Ann B.]

John,

I have had this problem with Paperwhites and Daffodils before. Crinum tend to do the same thing.

If it were me, I would dig them up carefully, and replant them immediately. The leaves may wilt a bit, but I don't think you will lose very many (if any) potential blooms.

My opinion? For what it is worth? Go for it... Divide them now!

[Dazed_Lily]

I agree. Daffodils are very hardy and forgiving. When you do reset be sure to have added bone meal to the soil underneath mixing well. I don't think the quality of flowering will be improved this year but who knows maybe it will be especially with the bone meal.

[John_NY]

Thanks. I am not really wooried about getting any blooms this year. I was just concerned that I can do it when they're green, so I can see what I'm doing.

[lbfoss]

I usually dig my clumps up right after they have bloomed, since the next year's blooms are formed during the summer as the leaves mature and then die back. I dig up the clumps, roots and all, pull them apart and try to get them back into the renewed soil about half as many as were originally there and then give away or replant the rest elsewhere.

This reminds me that I have a zillion of one type and I would love to arrange a bulb swap with those who would care to have some of mine in exchange for some of theirs!!

This offer goes for grape hyacinths as well...they are a weed in my yard these days!!

anyone want to do a swap of daffodil bulbs?? Mine are called Ice Follies and their yellow cups turn white as they mature while blooming. They are the hardiest things ever, anyone want to swap??

[sue salley]

I get a news letter from P. Allen Smith and he had an article about dividing daffodils today. He says to wait about 4-6 weeks after they stop blooming to transplant. That way you can still find them.