If you have daffodils in your garden, you have probably already propagated them using their bulbs. This procedure is considered proven and simple. But propagation via seeds is also possible, although it takes more time.
How to grow daffodils from seeds?
Daffodil seeds are located in three-chambered capsule fruits that ripen after the flowering period. You can sow these seeds by covering them with soil, watering them well and allowing them to germinate in a cool place. However, please note that it can take 2-3 years for daffodils grown from seed to bloom for the first time.
Small, black, inconspicuous
Where are the seeds hidden? They are numerous in three-chambered capsule fruits. Depending on the type of daffodil, the fruits contain up to 60 seeds. While the elongated capsule fruits are green in color, the small seeds are black. Other characteristics of the seeds are an elongated, round shape and a fine shine. The exception are seeds of jonquils and crinoline daffodils. Its seeds are wedge-shaped and dull black.
When do the seeds ripen?
It takes an average of 5 to 6 weeks for the seeds to mature. Different from species to species and depending on the variety and its flowering time, most seeds are ripe between the end of May and the beginning of June. When ripe, the long stem bends. In addition, the capsule fruits burst open.
Preventing seed formation protects the daffodil
As with other plants, the seed formation of a daffodil takes a lot of energy. For this reason, you should not wait for all of your daffodils to produce seeds after flowering. It is better to cut down the spent flower stems of most daffodils.
Sowing – step by step
The seeds that ripen in early summer should best be started to germinate immediately and in autumn at the latest. Alternatively, daffodils like to sow themselves or wind and animals can help.
How to proceed with sowing:
- Sow seeds in pots or directly outdoors
- cover with soil (dark germ)
- do not sow in the warm living room (cold germinator)
- pour well
- keep the soil of seeds in the pot moist
- Germination time: different, hesitant
Tips & Tricks
Keep in mind that daffodils grown from seed take an average of 2 to 3 years before they are ready to bloom for the first time.
