How to Store Daffodil Bulbs

Overview

Daffodils are often the first flower of spring, with their yellow flowers promising warmer days are just ahead. In most regions they are planted in autumn to prepare them for their spring show. In harshly cold conditions, where the ground is frozen throughout most of the winter, it may be necessary to bring daffodil bulbs indoors to more moderate temperatures. Or, if you plant them in containers and wish to plant other flowers once the daffodils fade you may dig them up and replant in the fall. The proper storage techniques will ensure most of your bulbs survive to bloom again.

Step 1

Allow the leaves to yellow and die back naturally before digging up the bulbs. The leaves are building up nutrients for next year's blooming until they are completely dead.

Step 2

Dig up the bulb being cautious to avoid bruising or cutting into it with your trowel. Dig around the bulbs and lift them out. Brush or rinse the excess soil off them.

Step 3

Separate out any damaged or rotten bulbs, then allow the healthy bulbs to dry for 12 to 24 hours. Lay them out on newspaper without touching.

Step 4

Fill a box with dry peat moss or sand. Place the bulbs inside, but do not place a lid on the box. Air flow is necessary to avoid rotting.

Step 5

Store the boxes of bulbs in a cool, dry place. Use your garage, potting shed, sun porch or basement.