Gardeners growing daffodils have been urged to complete one job now to ensure their displays are even better next year.
The yellow flowers are amongst the most beloved in British gardens, blooming from February through to the end of April, with the peak flowering period falling in March and April.
And according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), they are among the most dependable spring-flowering bulbs available, returning year after year with minimal effort.
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As the flowering season draws to a close, gardeners are being urged to complete one essential task to ensure their return next year.
The RHS suggests deadheading spent blooms once flowering has finished, ensuring that rather than putting energy into forming seeds, the plant channels it all back into the bulb for a “good flowering display” the following year.
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The experts added: “Deadheading also keeps the display looking its best.”
To do so, just pinch the faded flowers between your thumb and index finger and gently pull them away.
Gardeners should deadhead as soon as the blooms begin to fade or lose their vibrancy.
If they have turned brown, they are certainly ready to be removed, DevonLive reports.
Leaving dead flowers in place can reduce the number of blooms the following year, so it’s vital to remove them promptly.
It is a good idea to plant daffodils alongside perennials or shrubs that will naturally conceal the dying foliage, allowing them to recover gradually ahead of next spring.
It is equally important to avoid removing flowers prematurely; if you’re unsure when to do so, it’s worth waiting a week or two before taking another look.
Also during April, gardeners should turn their attention to deadheading tulips and bedding plants such as pansies, primulas and violas.
Spring-flowering shrubs, including rhododendrons and camellias, can also be deadheaded to promote further flower growth.
April is also a great month to start mowing the lawn if you haven’t already as well as replanting spring seedlings.
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