The daffodil is beloved for its fresh fragrance and beautiful flowers, especially in the cold winter months.

As an indoor potted plant, the daffodil not only adds vitality but also brings the scent of spring. To ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooms, proper care is essential. This article provides a comprehensive care guide for daffodils.

1. Ideal Planting Time

Typically, the bulbs should be planted between October and November. If you want them to bloom around the New Year, it's best to prepare the bulbs in advance and plant them at the right time. Daffodils generally take 6 to 8 weeks to grow from bulbs to full bloom.

2. Soil and Container Requirements

Daffodils prefer well-draining soil. You can opt for loose, organic-rich soil to ensure the roots can breathe properly. Heavy, clayey soil can lead to waterlogging, causing root rot.

To improve drainage, mix in some sand or perlite. As for containers, choose shallow containers because daffodil roots are not deep, but make sure the container has a larger diameter to accommodate the roots.

3. Light Requirements

Daffodils enjoy sunlight, but they don’t require direct, strong sunlight during the blooming period. For indoor care, place your daffodils on a south or west-facing windowsill, ensuring they get 4 to 6 hours of indirect sunlight each day. If natural light is insufficient, consider using artificial grow lights to provide extra light.

4. Temperature Control

The ideal growth temperature for daffodils is between 10 and 15°C (50-59°F). During the winter, when indoor temperatures tend to be low, place the daffodils in a warmer area to maintain an optimal temperature.

Keeping the temperature around 15°C (59°F) during the flowering period helps extend the bloom time. If the temperature is too high, the flowering period will shorten, and the flowers may wilt prematurely. Therefore, avoid placing daffodils near heat sources, such as radiators or air conditioners.

5. Watering Tips

Daffodils need moderate watering. While they prefer a moist environment, excessive water can cause root rot.

Water only when the surface of the soil is slightly dry. During the growing period, water 1 to 2 times a week to keep the soil lightly moist. In the winter dormancy period, daffodils need less water, so you can reduce the frequency of watering.

6. Fertilization

During the growing period, especially before and after flowering, you can apply moderate amounts of fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended.

In early spring, fertilize once a month to help the plant establish a strong root system. After flowering, stop fertilizing, as the daffodil will enter its dormancy period and does not require additional nutrients.

7. Pest and Disease Control

Daffodils are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but they may still face common threats such as aphids, red spider mites, and fungal infections.

If pests or disease spots are noticed, use appropriate insecticides or fungicides to treat them. To prevent pests and diseases, maintain a dry and well-ventilated growing environment, avoid waterlogging, and prevent excessive moisture.

As a beautiful winter flower, the daffodil can bring a touch of spring to your home. With proper care, your daffodils will surely bloom magnificently and brighten your living space.