Daffodils open and assure us spring is on the way! Occasionally someone says “my daffodils are not flowering” this year. This happens for various reasons. Poor blooms on daffodils may be due to mistreatment of foliage the previous year or because bulbs are too crowded and daffodils won’t bloom.
Step Two
Planted too late – Bulbs that were planted too late in autumn or small bulbs may be the reason why daffodils didn’t bloom. These situations may have produced small foliage and poor blooms on daffodils. Check to make sure bulbs are still there and have not rotted or been stolen by a carousing critter. If the bulbs are there and still plump and healthy, they will continue to grow and flower in the next season. Fertilize appropriately or work in organic material for blooms next season.
Step Three
Too little sunlight – Another example of why daffodils didn’t bloom can be an issue of sunlight. Many flowering blooms need six to eight hours of full sunlight to complete the blooming process. If the area in which bulbs are planted is too shady, this can be why daffodils won’t bloom.
Step Four
Too much nitrogen – Too much nitrogen fertilizer can explain why daffodils didn’t bloom. If the question is why don’t my daffodils have flowers, nitrogen may be the culprit. Often nitrogen fertilizer, if overused, creates lush foliage and little in the way of blooms. Organic matter that is rich in nitrogen can have the same effect, unless worked into the soil gradually. To correct an issue of poor blooms on daffodils and other bulbs, use fertilizer with a higher middle number (phosphorus), such as 10/20/20 or 0/10/10, prior to anticipated time of flowering.
Step Five
Crowded bulbs – Poor blooms on daffodils that have bloomed profusely in years past usually indicate bulbs that are crowded and need division. These may be dug up and separated in spring following bloom time or in autumn. Replant in groupings, allowing further room for growth. By following these guidelines, you will never again have to ask “why don’t my daffodils have flowers.”
Step Six
Dead or missing bulbs – If bulbs are no longer in the area where they were planted or are shriveled, you have discovered why “my daffodils are not flowering.” Examine the site’s drainage, which can cause bulbs to rot. If bulbs have been stolen by wildlife, you will likely notice that the soil has been disturbed or that other neighboring plants have been damaged.