How to Dig Up and Replant Narcissus Bulbs

Remove the narcissus plants from the ground with a spading fork once the foliage has changed to a greenish-yellow color and the flowers have ceased blooming.

Remove the foliage and any remaining blooms. Wash the soil off the bulbs. Separate the smaller bulbs from the larger mother bulb by gently breaking them off with your hands.

Set the bulbs in a shady area away from the sun to dry. Inspect the bulbs and throw away undersized, damaged or diseased ones. Healthy bulbs are hard and firm.

Set the bulbs in a container in a single layer. Place in a shady, dry location such as a gardening shed or basement.

Replant the narcissus bulbs six to eight weeks before the first frost is expected in your area and when the ground temperature is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, recommends the National Gardening Association.

Loosen the soil with a garden fork to a depth of 12 to 15 inches. Spread a 4-inch layer of compost over the soil and mix thoroughly together.

Plant the bulb in a hole three to four times as deep as its height. Place the bulb in the hole with the pointy end up and cover with firmly with the soil. Space the small bulbs 3 inches apart and larger ones 5 to 7 inches apart. Water the bulbs after planting and continue until the ground freezes.

Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch, such as peat moss, to protect the bulbs during the winter and prevent heaving. Remove 1-inch of the layer in the spring after the last frost. The mulch will prevent weeds and retain moisture.