Nargis Daffodil Mixed Color Flower Bulb

Growing Nargis (daffodil, Narcissus) bulbs is straightforward if you provide a cool dormant period and well-drained soil. Here’s how:

1. Choose healthy bulbs

• Select firm, heavy bulbs.
• Avoid bulbs that are soft, moldy, or damaged.

2. Planting time

• In temperate climates, plant in autumn (September–November) so they root before winter.
• In warmer regions like much of India, bulbs often need pre-chilling in a refrigerator (4–9°C) for 8–12 weeks before planting because they require cold to bloom well.

3. Select the location

• Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight).
• Well-draining soil is essential. Waterlogged soil can rot the bulbs.

4. Plant the bulbs

• Plant with the pointed end facing upward.
• Plant at a depth of about 2–3 times the bulb’s height (usually 10–15 cm deep).
• Space bulbs 10–15 cm apart.

5. Watering

• Water thoroughly after planting.
• Keep the soil slightly moist while roots develop.
• Once leaves appear, water when the top few centimeters of soil become dry.
• Avoid overwatering.

6. Fertilizing

• Mix compost into the soil before planting.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) when shoots emerge and again after flowering.

7. During flowering

• Flowers usually appear in late winter to spring after the cold period.
• Remove faded flowers, but leave the leaves intact.

8. After flowering

• Let the leaves remain until they turn yellow naturally (about 6 weeks). This allows the bulb to store energy for next year’s blooms.
• Then cut back the foliage.
• Bulbs can stay in the ground if winters are cold enough, or be lifted, dried, and stored in a cool, dry place.

Growing in pots

• Use a pot with drainage holes.
• Fill with a well-draining potting mix.
• Plant bulbs close together but not touching.
• Chill the bulbs before planting if your climate doesn’t provide enough winter cold.