Introduction
Spring gardens wouldn't be the same without the cheery faces of daffodils nodding in the breeze. These reliable perennials are often the first sign that warmer days are here to stay, bringing a much-needed splash of gold to the landscape. At Longfield Gardens, we believe that daffodils are some of the most rewarding flowers you can grow because they are hardy, easy to care for, and naturally increase in number over time.
While these bulbs are happy to stay in the ground for years, you might find yourself wondering if you can take them out to move them or make more room. Whether your garden layout is changing or your once-thriving patch has become a bit too crowded, the good news is that lifting and moving these bulbs is a simple and effective gardening task. This guide will walk you through the process of taking out your bulbs safely so you can enjoy even more blooms in the seasons to come.
Taking out daffodil bulbs is a straightforward way to refresh your garden, whether you are dividing them to encourage more flowers or relocating them to a sunnier spot. If you’re planning future purchases, the fall-planted spring-blooming bulbs collection is a good place to start.
Why You Might Want to Take Daffodil Bulbs Out
Daffodils are famous for being "plant it and forget it" bulbs. In many cases, they can stay in the same spot for a decade or more without needing any help. However, there are several common scenarios where taking them out is the best move for the health of the plant and the beauty of your yard.
Relocating for Better Light or Design
Gardens are dynamic spaces that change as trees grow and structures are added. A spot that was sunny five years ago might now be in deep shade. Since these flowers need plenty of sun to recharge their energy, moving them to a brighter location can help them stay vigorous. You might also simply want to change your color scheme or move a drift of flowers closer to a walkway where they can be better appreciated.
Relieving Overcrowded Clumps
The most common reason gardeners lift their bulbs is to "divide" them. Daffodils multiply by growing smaller "daughter" bulbs around the main one. Over time, these clumps become so dense that the bulbs start competing for water, nutrients, and physical space. When this happens, you may notice "blindness," which is when the plant produces plenty of green leaves but few or no flowers. Lifting the clump and spreading the bulbs out gives them the room they need to bloom again.
Clearing Space for Summer Annuals
If you have a small garden or a formal flower bed, you might want to use the space occupied by spring bulbs for summer-blooming annuals. While you can plant around the bulbs, some gardeners prefer to take them out to make digging and soil preparation easier for the next season’s display.
Key Takeaway: You can absolutely take daffodil bulbs out of the ground to improve their health, change your garden design, or manage a crowded planting.
The Best Timing for Taking Out Your Bulbs
Timing is the most important factor when you decide to lift your bulbs. If you dig them up too early, you might interrupt the bulb's natural cycle of storing energy. If you wait too long, the foliage might disappear entirely, making it difficult to find where the bulbs are actually located.
Wait for the Foliage to Fade
The leaves of a daffodil act like solar panels. After the flower fades, the leaves continue to work, absorbing sunlight and turning it into energy that is stored in the bulb for next year’s bloom. For the best results, you should wait until the foliage has turned yellow or brown and has started to flop over. This usually happens about six to eight weeks after the flowers have finished blooming.
The "In the Green" Exception
While waiting for brown foliage is ideal, you can move daffodils while they are still green or even while they are in bloom. This is often called moving them "in the green." This is a popular method because you can see exactly where the plants are and how the colors look. If you choose this method, be extra careful not to damage the leaves or roots, and replant them immediately so they don't dry out. They might look a bit sad for the rest of the season, but they will usually recover and bloom the following spring.
What to Do Next: Timing Checklist
- Mark the spot with a small stake while the flowers are still blooming.
- Monitor the foliage once the petals drop.
- Plan to dig when the leaves are at least 50% yellow or brown.
- Avoid cutting off green leaves, as this prevents the bulb from "recharging."
Step-by-Step: How to Lift Daffodil Bulbs Safely
Once the timing is right, the actual process of taking the bulbs out is quite simple. You don't need any specialized tools—a standard garden spade or a sturdy garden fork will do the job perfectly.
Prepare the Area
If the soil is very dry and hard, you might want to water the area a day before you plan to dig. This softens the ground and makes it much easier to lift the bulbs without accidentally slicing through them. Clear away any mulch or debris so you can see exactly where the stems meet the soil.
Digging the Clump
Instead of digging directly on top of the bulbs, start your shovel about six inches away from the base of the stems. This creates a "safety zone" so you don't nick the bulbs with the edge of your tool. Push your spade or fork straight down into the soil and gently pry upward. Work your way around the clump, loosening the soil from all sides until the entire mass of bulbs feels loose.
Lifting and Cleaning
Gently lift the clump out of the hole. If the soil is loose, you can shake the bulbs to remove the excess dirt. Avoid washing the bulbs with water; dry soil is much easier to manage and won't encourage rot. At this stage, the old foliage may naturally fall away. If it is still firmly attached but completely brown and crispy, you can gently twist it off or cut it back to about an inch above the bulb.
Key Takeaway: Always dig a wide circle around the bulbs to avoid damaging them. Use a gentle lifting motion rather than a forceful pull.
How to Divide and Separate Bulbs
The most rewarding part of taking out daffodil bulbs is seeing how much they have multiplied. What started as three or four bulbs may have turned into a dozen or more over just a few years.
Identifying the Bulbs
When you lift a clump, you will see the large original bulbs with smaller ones attached to the sides. These smaller bulbs are often called offsets or "daughter" bulbs. They are genetically identical to the parent plant and will eventually grow into full-sized, blooming bulbs.
Separating the Clump
Many of the daughter bulbs will fall away naturally as you handle them. For those that are still attached, a gentle tug is usually all it takes to separate them. If a small bulb is very firmly attached and doesn't want to come off, it is best to leave it joined to the parent bulb for another year. Forcing them apart can leave a "wound" on the bulb that might be prone to disease.
Sorting Your Bulbs
As you separate them, give the bulbs a quick inspection. A healthy daffodil bulb should feel firm and heavy for its size. If you find any that are mushy, extremely lightweight, or show signs of significant mold, it is best to toss them in the compost. Small nicks from your shovel are usually fine, but a bulb that has been sliced in half is unlikely to survive.
- Action Step: Separate the bulbs by size. Larger bulbs will likely bloom next year, while the tiny offsets may take a season or two of growth before they produce a flower.
Replanting Immediately vs. Storing for Fall
Once the bulbs are out of the ground and separated, you have two choices: you can put them back in the dirt right away, or you can store them to plant in the autumn. Both methods work well, and the best choice depends on your schedule and garden plans.
The Benefits of Immediate Replanting
Many gardeners find that replanting immediately is the easiest way to manage the task. You don't have to worry about finding a storage spot or forgetting to plant them in the fall. Simply prepare a new hole, add a bit of compost if the soil is poor, and tuck them back in. Because the bulbs are still "awake," they can begin establishing new roots right away. We often recommend this method at Longfield Gardens for busy gardeners who want to get the job done all at once.
Why You Might Choose Summer Storage
You might choose to store your bulbs if the area where you want to plant them isn't ready yet—for example, if you are currently growing summer vegetables in that spot. Storage is also a good option if you want to give away some of your extra bulbs to friends later in the year.
Choosing the Right Method
- Immediate Replanting: Best for moving clumps to a new permanent home or thinning out a crowded bed.
- Summer Storage: Best if you are redesigning the garden or sharing bulbs with others in the fall.
Storing Your Bulbs over the Summer
If you decide not to replant your daffodils right away, you must store them correctly to keep them healthy. Bulbs are living things, even when they are dormant, and they need the right environment to survive until the fall.
The Drying Phase
Before putting the bulbs into long-term storage, they need to dry out. Lay them out in a single layer on a piece of newspaper or a mesh screen in a shaded, well-ventilated area. A porch, garage, or shed works well, as long as the bulbs are protected from direct sunlight and rain. Let them dry for about a week until the outer skins feel papery.
Proper Storage Containers
Never store bulbs in airtight plastic bags or sealed containers. Moisture is the enemy of a dormant bulb, and without airflow, they will quickly rot. Instead, use:
- Mesh produce bags (like those used for onions or citrus).
- Paper lunch bags with a few holes punched in them.
- Cardboard boxes or egg cartons.
- Open plastic crates.
The Ideal Environment
Store your containers in a cool, dry, and dark place. A basement or a ventilated garage is usually ideal. Avoid the refrigerator, as the gases produced by some fruits (like apples) can damage the flower buds inside the bulbs. Check on your bulbs once a month; if any feel soft or show signs of decay, remove them immediately so the problem doesn't spread to the healthy bulbs.
Key Takeaway: Success in storage comes down to air circulation. Keep your bulbs dry and let them breathe in a cool, dark spot. For more shipping and timing details, see our shipping information.
Replanting Your Daffodils in the Fall
Whether you are planting bulbs you just dug up or ones you’ve kept in storage, the process for fall planting is the same. Getting the depth and spacing right is the secret to a beautiful spring display.
When to Plant
In the United States, the best time to plant daffodil bulbs is when the soil has cooled down but before the ground freezes. This usually falls between September and November, depending on your local climate. Planting in the fall allows the bulbs to grow a strong root system before the winter cold sets in. If you’re unsure about local conditions, the Hardiness Zone Map can help.
Getting the Depth Right
A simple rule of thumb for almost all bulbs is to plant them three times as deep as the bulb is tall. For a standard-sized daffodil bulb, this usually means the base of the bulb should be about 6 inches deep. If you are planting small "daughter" bulbs, they only need to be about 3 or 4 inches deep. Planting at the correct depth protects the bulb from temperature swings and helps prevent them from being dug up by curious squirrels.
Spacing and Soil
Place the bulbs with the pointy side facing up. If you can't tell which end is the top, don't worry—the bulb will naturally find its way toward the light. Space the bulbs about 4 to 6 inches apart. If you want a more natural, "drifting" look, try tossing the bulbs gently onto the ground and planting them exactly where they land. Ensure the soil is well-drained, as daffodils do not like to sit in soggy ground.
-
Fall Planting Summary:
- Plant when the soil is 60°F or cooler.
- Use the "three times height" rule for depth.
- Pointy side up, 4-6 inches apart.
- Water once after planting to settle the soil.
Managing Different Garden Scenarios
Every garden is unique, and the way you handle taking out your bulbs might change depending on your specific situation.
Moving Bulbs to a New Home
If you are moving house and want to take your favorite daffodils with you, lifting them is a great way to bring a piece of your old garden to your new one. In this case, the summer storage method is usually best. Label your bags carefully with the variety name or color so you know exactly what you’re planting when you arrive at your new home.
Naturalized Daffodils in Grass
Many people grow daffodils in meadows or lawns. If you need to lift these, it can be a bit more work because of the competing grass roots. Use a sturdy garden fork to lift larger sections of sod, remove the bulbs, and then press the grass back down. Since lawn daffodils are often left to their own devices, they are the most likely candidates for division every few years. If you like this style, the Daffodil Ice Follies collection is a naturalizing option worth exploring.
Sharing the Wealth
Daffodils are the gift that keeps on giving. If your garden is at its limit, taking out extra bulbs is a wonderful way to help a friend or neighbor start their own spring garden. When sharing, it’s helpful to provide a few basic instructions on planting depth and sun requirements to ensure their new plants thrive.
Ensuring Consistent Blooms Every Year
While lifting and dividing is a great way to keep your daffodils healthy, there are a few other simple things you can do to make sure they return with plenty of flowers every spring.
Soil Health and Nutrition
Daffodils aren't very demanding, but they do appreciate good soil. When you replant your bulbs, you can mix a little bit of compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the bottom of the hole. This provides a steady supply of nutrients as the roots develop. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage lots of leaves but very few flowers.
The Importance of Drainage
If you notice your bulbs are disappearing over time, the most likely culprit is poor drainage. Daffodils need soil that allows water to move through it freely. If your soil is heavy clay, consider planting your bulbs in raised beds or adding organic matter to the planting hole to improve the structure.
Right Plant, Right Place
As you take your bulbs out and look for new spots to put them, remember their basic needs. They love full sun but can handle "dappled" shade, such as the area under a deciduous tree that hasn't leafed out yet in early spring. Avoid planting them in deep, permanent shade where they won't get the light they need to recharge for the following year. For more planting guidance, the Know Your Growing Zone: Cold Hardiness and Heat Tolerance article is a helpful companion.
Key Takeaway: Healthy blooms are the result of three simple things: plenty of sunlight while the leaves are green, good drainage to prevent rot, and enough space to grow without being crowded.
Troubleshooting Common Questions
When you take out your bulbs, you might notice things that look unusual. In most cases, these are natural parts of the plant's life cycle.
Why are my bulbs different sizes?
It’s completely normal to find a mix of huge "mother" bulbs and tiny offsets. The size of the bulb is a good indicator of when it will bloom. The largest bulbs have the most stored energy and will likely flower the very next spring. The smallest ones are still maturing and might spend a year or two just growing leaves before they are big enough to produce a blossom.
What if I accidentally sliced a bulb?
Gardening happens, and an occasional sliced bulb is nothing to worry about. If the damage is just a small nick on the outer skin, the bulb will likely heal and grow just fine. If you’ve cut the bulb significantly or sliced through the center where the flower bud is located, it is safer to discard it.
Why do some bulbs look "doubled"?
You might see two large bulbs joined together at the base. This is simply a bulb in the process of dividing. You can try to separate them, but if they are firmly attached, it is best to plant them as a pair. They will naturally move further apart as they continue to grow.
Encouraging Success
- Keep tools sharp to make clean cuts if you must prune roots.
- Always handle bulbs gently to avoid bruising.
- Store bulbs in a place where rodents can't reach them.
- Label your varieties immediately after digging.
FAQ
Can I dig up daffodils as soon as the flowers fade?
It is best to wait until the foliage has turned yellow or brown, which usually takes about six to eight weeks after blooming. If you dig them up while the leaves are still vibrant green, the bulb may not have stored enough energy to produce a flower for the next spring season.
Do I have to take my daffodil bulbs out every year?
No, daffodils are very hardy and do not need to be lifted every year. Most gardeners only take them out every three to five years if the clump has become overcrowded or if they want to move the plants to a new location in the garden.
How do I store daffodil bulbs until I'm ready to replant them?
After digging and removing the dry soil, store your bulbs in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated spot. Use mesh bags or paper bags rather than plastic to ensure plenty of air circulation, which prevents the bulbs from rotting during their dormant period.
Will the small "daughter" bulbs bloom the first year I replant them?
The very small offset bulbs often need a year or two of growth to reach a size capable of producing a flower. When you replant them, you might only see green leaves for the first season, but with patience and good soil, they will eventually grow into beautiful blooming daffodils. If you’re curious about a bold, ruffled type, the Classic Double Daffodil Collection is a good example.
Conclusion
Taking out daffodil bulbs is a rewarding and simple task that helps keep your garden vibrant and healthy. Whether you are dividing a crowded patch to encourage more blooms or moving your favorite varieties to a new home, the process is easy enough for gardeners of any skill level. By following the natural cycle of the plant and waiting for the foliage to fade, you ensure that your bulbs stay strong and full of energy for years to come.
At Longfield Gardens, we want to help you make the most of your spring display. Moving and dividing your bulbs is one of the best ways to "share the wealth" of your garden, whether that means filling in empty spots in your own yard or giving extra bulbs to friends. With just a little bit of time and a sturdy shovel, you can ensure that your daffodils continue to bring joy and color to your landscape every spring. If you want to browse more options, the Daffodil Assorted Fragrant Daffodil Collection is another great choice.
Taking the time to lift and divide your daffodils is a simple investment that pays off in a more beautiful, flower-filled garden every year.
Ready to add more color to your landscape? Explore our collection of premium bulbs and perennials at Longfield Gardens to find the perfect companions for your daffodils. You can also visit About Longfield Gardens or Contact Us if you need help getting started.
