Growing Daffodils In Hot Southern Climates

Many gardeners believe daffodils aren't worth bothering with in their hot southern climate. This isn't true,however. Almost everyone in North America can grow daffodils. The key to success with daffodils is choosing the right varieties.I think the tips in How To Grow Daffodils In Hot Climates and Cool Daffodils For Hot Climates will convince you to give planting daffodils in your southern garden another try.

The best narcissus bulbs to grow in USDA planting zones 7-10 are jonquillas and tazettas.These types don't need cold winters to thrive and they love baking in the ground during a hot, dry southern summer. Both types have sweet smelling clusters of several flowers per stem. They are mostly late bloomers.

Large-cupped and trumpet daffodils will grow in most gardens in zones 7 and 8. If you live in coastal zone 9 or 10 you can try growing these by giving them a cold treatment in the refridgerator for a few weeks and planting them in late autumn. Plant them in a partially shaded spot to make the blooms last longer. Treat them as annuals and buy fresh bulbs every year.

Species(wild) and miniature daffodils are also good choices for planting in the South. These narcissus bulbs are generally early bloomers. Most produce plants that are only a few inches tall so they need to be at the front of your flower bed or in containers. They look great in rock gardens with other small bulbs.

Gardeners in frost free areas can grow paperwhites outdoors as annuals.They usually bloom 4-6 weeks after planting. Paperwhites are great for container plantings. They'll need afternoon shade if you want long lasting flowers.

Don't forget to check out How To Grow Daffodils In Hot Climates and Cool Daffodils For Hot Climates for more information on growing daffodils in your deep south garden. You'll find many more tips and learn about the types I grow in my own garden.