Daffodil Leaves: Should They Be Cut,Tied Or Braided?

The subject of daffodil leaves and whether they should be cut,tied, braided or left alone is always one of the most hotly debated narcissus topics among gardeners. It's hard to believe but this time of year I always see a lot of articles and forum posts from supposedly experienced gardeners who advise that you should tie or braid daffodil foliage after it flops over. Don't do it if you want to see daffodil flowers next year!

I saw a blog post just yesterday from the UK that advised gardeners that we can cut the leaves exactly 6 weeks after blooming if they've fallen over,even if they are still green. According to this writer that's all the time narcissus leaves need to grow and help the bulb store energy for the following season. Where did this gem of wisdom come from? Why is six weeks the magic time frame? This might be a good strategy to get rid of a daffodil that you don't like but if you want blooms next year don't cut those leaves.

If You Enjoy Blind Daffodils Be Sure To Tie The Leaves With A Rubber Band

In an earlier post I gave you some of the most common reasons for daffodils growing blind and gave you some remedies for the situation. The one big cause that I didn't mention was cutting or tying the foliage. Some people just can't stand it when those leaves flop over.

Daffodil leaves need to remain attached to the bulb until they are withered and no green remains. Even after the annual "flop-over" the foliage continues to absorb sunlight and nutrients. If you tie or braid the foliage that can't happen. If you cut the leaves off you may well kill your bulbs. Unlike deadheading which isn't essential to the success of your daffodils,leaving those leaves alone is crucial.

No,daffodil leaves that have fallen over are not attractive. But close your eyes if you have to and resist the urge to cut or alter them. If someone else cuts your lawn and you have daffodils planted close to the grass line instruct your mower to leave the leaves alone.

Also it's not a good idea to plant most spring bulbs right in your lawn. Crocuses and snowdrops are usually finished before warm season grasses break their dormancy but daffodils,dutch iris and perennial tulips should be left alone until the foliage withers.


*If it's too late and the damage has already been done,don't panic. Most of the bulbs will probably survive but don't expect many blooms next year. You might want to plant some extra bulbs as insurance just in case your daffodils don't return at all.

The Dark Side Of Daffodils

So,the bottom line is don't cut your daffodil leaves. That one or two months after blooming could be called the "ugly time" in the daffodil garden. This period doesn't last very long and for those of us who love daffodil flowers it's a small price to pay.