Plants We Love: Daffodil

Here in Maryland, we’ve had a warm winter and as a results, perennials seem to be blooming about a month ahead of schedule. This time of year, blooming Daffodils (Narcissus) are one of the first signs that Spring is on its way. Few plants provide as much visual impact with as little effort. There are many reasons for Daffodils’ popularity – they are hardy, colorful, and thrive in most soil types (so long as that soil is well drained), and attract few insects and pests. Because they tend to bloom before deciduous trees get their first leaves, Daffodils can be planted underneath trees despite their need for sunlight.

We like to plant Daffodils in shrub borders and perennial beds where they can add much needed color early in the season. They are particularly impactful when planted en masse. Because there are so many cultivars (the American Daffodil Society lists 25,000!) there is truly a Daffodil for every setting.