With orange leaves falling and the days turning cooler, autumn has well and truly arrived. But if you’re already dreaming of bright spring blooms and lush greenery, now is the perfect time to get ahead. It’s officially daffodil bulb planting season.
It may feel early, but planting bulbs such as daffodils in autumn gives them plenty of time to establish strong roots. The key is to get them in the ground before the first frost (which, given our unpredictable weather, could be just around the corner!).
If you want your garden bursting with cheerful daffodils come spring — ideal for cutting, arranging, and decorating your home — here’s why you should start planting bulbs now, and how to do it right.
Why autumn is the best time to plant daffodils
September-November is the best time to plant daffodil bulbs Getty Images / Kimberley Frost Photography
For the most beautiful daffodils, timing is everything. The ideal window to plant bulbs is between September and November. ‘This is the best time, as the soil still holds some warmth but before it becomes too wet in winter,’ explains David Denyer, flower and garden expert at Eflorist. Planting in autumn gives bulbs the chance to develop strong roots, which is the secret to healthy growth and vibrant spring flowers.
Leave it too late, and your bulbs may struggle. By late winter, not only is it less pleasant to be out in the garden, but bulbs are unlikely to establish properly. ‘This can result in small or missing blooms,’ David adds. For healthy plants and a dazzling display, autumn really is the prime time to start digging.
How to choose the best daffodil bulbs
Alexander Walker – Getty Images
‘When buying bulbs, select the largest ones you can find, squeeze them gently to ensure that they are firm, and check for any signs of mould that could impair growth,’ advises Calum Maddock, gardening expert at HomeHow.co.uk.
Before planting, Calum recommends preparing your soil carefully:
Loosen compacted areas by digging over the soil.
Remove weeds to give your bulbs the best start.
Improve the soil structure by mixing in plenty of organic matter, such as bark chips, coffee grounds, or garden compost, to aid drainage.
Add a suitable fertiliser to the soil to provide the nutrients required for healthy growth.
Top tips for planting daffodils
Photos by R A Kearton – Getty Images
Daffodils thrive in spring sunshine, so pick a sunny or lightly shaded spot for planting. Pair your bulbs with peat-free, well-draining soil for the best results. ‘If your soil is heavy clay, add grit or plant your bulbs in raised beds and pots to prevent rot,’ advises David. For sandy soil, mix in compost to help retain essential moisture.
When it comes to planting, depth and spacing matter. Aim to plant bulbs at around three times their own depth (usually 10–15cm), leaving about 7–10cm between each one. Planting in clusters creates a fuller, more balanced display. ‘Place them with the pointed tip facing upwards, as this is where the shoots will emerge from,’ David explains. Planting too shallowly can leave bulbs unstable, making them more likely to topple once in bloom.
How to look after daffodils after planting
VICUSCHKA – Getty Images
Once your bulbs are in place, give them a generous watering to help the soil settle and encourage root growth. ‘After that, they can usually be left alone through the winter, as rainfall should provide enough moisture,’ explains David. If the soil feels dry, you can always top up with collected rainwater from a watering can or container – a simple and eco-friendly way to keep your bulbs happy.
Daffodils are wonderfully low-maintenance. They don’t require much fertiliser – simply feed once after planting, and again in early spring before shoots appear to boost flower production and leaf growth.
It’s also wise to mark where you’ve planted your bulbs to avoid disturbing them when gardening later on. Some bulb packs come with markers, but you can easily make your own using flat wooden sticks and a garden marker pen.
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