Can You Move Daffodils After They Flower?

Timing

• Daffodil bulbs are best moved in late spring after the green foliage wilts and turns yellow or brown, usually about two months after blooming. Never remove green foliage, as the foliage draws energy from the sun. The energy moves from the foliage to the bulbs, storing energy in the bulbs over the winter.

Digging the Bulbs

• To dig daffodil bulbs, use a shovel or garden fork to lift an entire clump of bulbs from the ground. Separate the small bulbs growing on the sides of the mature bulbs. The number of small bulbs varies depending how long the bulbs have been in the ground. Daffodils planted recently have fewer bulbs, but daffodils that have been in the ground for years may have several bulbs. At this time, the bulbs can be replanted immediately in a new location, or they can be stored until autumn and then planted.

Storing the Bulbs

• To store daffodil bulbs, remove remaining foliage, and spread the bulbs in a dry, shady spot. Let the bulbs dry for about a week, and store the bulbs in a cool, dry spot until planting time in autumn. Store the bulbs where they won't be accessible to rodents.

An Alternate Plan

• If it's impossible to wait until the foliage dies down, you can move and replant the daffodil bulbs while the foliage is still green. Dig the bulbs carefully so that the foliage remains attached to the bulbs. Replant the bulbs in the new location immediately, and water deeply. Let the foliage die down naturally.

Planting Daffodil Bulbs

• Daffodil bulbs need a sunny spot and well-drained soil. Before planting in late September or early October, cultivate the soil and mix in a handful of dry fertilizer for every 10 to 12 bulbs. Dig a hole measuring about 8 inches deep for each bulb. Place a bulb in each hole with the pointed end up. Water the bulbs deeply and keep the soil moist until the first freeze. A layer of mulch protects the daffodil bulbs and keep the soil moist and warm during the winter.