A Guide to Caring for Daffodils
SUMMARY:
- Daffodils are vibrant spring flowers with unique shapes and colors, requiring special care for optimal display.
- Common issues include toxicity to other flowers, delicate stems, and upward bending of stems, with solutions provided.
- Daffodils should be stored at 1-3°C, hydrated properly, and processed separately from other flowers to maintain freshness.
- Proper handling techniques, such as using low-density floral foam and storing upright, ensure longer vase life and better performance.
- Use FIFO (First In, First Out) method to rotate stock and maintain freshness for up to two weeks in cold storage.
Daffodils are a bright and cheerful sign of spring in Australia and a very important part of Daffodil Day Charity celebration. Their unique shape features six petal-like tepals surrounding a trumpet-shaped corona. Common colours include yellow and white, with some varieties displaying orange or pink hues. While daffodils require special care, they can be a stunning addition to your floral arrangements when handled properly.
Common Issues & Solutions
Important daffodil-specific tips include:
- Issue: Toxic to Other Flowers. Daffodils release a substance that can shorten the vase life of other flowers.
- Solution: To prevent this, keep daffodils in a separate bucket of water for at least six hours before combining them with other blooms.
- Issue: Delicate Stems & Blooms. Daffodils are prone to damage during transport and handling.
- Solution: Always handle with care and choose buds at the "pencil" or "gooseneck" stage when purchasing.
- Issue: Upward Bending. If laid flat, daffodil stems will bend upwards due to geotropism. Geotropism (also called gravitropism) is the directional growth of an organism in response to gravity.
- Solution: To maintain straight stems, store and transport them upright.
Keeping your Daffodils Fresh
Some key tips to help your fresh-cut daffodils thrive:
- Ethylene Sensitivity: While daffodils have low sensitivity to ethylene, exposure to high levels can shorten their lifespan. Using ethylene-inhibitor treatments can help protect them.
- Storage Temperature: Ideal storage temperature is 1-3°C. They can be sold dry, but for best performance, keep them cool.
- Hydration: If wet-packed, use a bulb-specific flower food to prolong freshness. Process daffodils separately to prevent their sap from harming other flowers.
Performance & Handling
To maximise the longevity and quality of your daffodils, heed the following:
- Vase Life: Daffodils typically last 5-7 days.
- Opening Speed: Warmer temperatures accelerate blooming. If daffodils fail to open, it may be due to improper storage or harvesting at the wrong stage.
- Floral Foam Use: If designing with floral foam, use a lower-density foam for easier stem insertion. Cut stems at an angle for better absorption.
- Finishing Touches: Sprays like Floralife® Finishing Touch 950ml (Step 4 - Protect) can help keep blooms fresh and hydrated.
FIFO – First In, First Out
To ensure the freshest flowers for customers, always rotate stock using the FIFO method. Daffodils can be stored at 1°C with 75-85% humidity for up to two weeks if the cold chain is maintained.
In conclusion, daffodils are a vibrant and cheerful addition to any arrangement, especially for Daffodil Day Charity events. Proper care, such as separating them from other flowers, handling them gently, and ensuring proper hydration and storage, helps maintain their beauty. With the right care, daffodils will brighten any space and bring the spirit of spring. For more information about flower care, check out our blog Guide to Flower Food Dosing for Fresh Cut Flowers. For more information about daffodils, check out Artificial Flowers & More For Daffodil Day: The Whys and Hows of Spreading Awareness.