Spring is a season of vibrant colour, with daffodils among the first to bloom. But once their flowers fade, the care you provide can determine whether they return next year. Gardening expert Simon Akeroyd has shared crucial advice on handling daffodils after flowering, warning that a common mistake could stop them coming back.
In a TikTok video, Mr Akeroyd explained that while it may be tempting to tidy up dying foliage, bundling the leaves together and tying them can harm the plant. He demonstrated this by gathering the daffodils and securing them so the wilting petals faced downward towards the grass. This, he cautioned, prevents the flower from photosynthesising, a process essential for drawing nutrients down into the bulb for the following spring.
He also advised against mowing over daffodils after they have finished flowering, as this can hinder their return. Instead, Mr Akeroyd recommends deadheading – simply removing the flower heads where the yellow petals are attached. This not only makes the garden look tidier but also encourages the daffodils to store extra nutrients for a more impressive display next year.
“Leave the foliage to die back naturally for six weeks after flowering to ensure another stunning spring display next year,” Mr Akeroyd said. For those planning to add more daffodils, autumn is the ideal planting time, in a sunny spot with some shade. During dry spring conditions, water consistently, but reduce watering once the flowers fade and the plant enters dormancy.
If you already have healthy growth, you can lift and separate the clumps every three to five years to maintain vitality. Proper care now will ensure your garden is filled with bright yellow blooms again next spring.
