Bring a little bit of spring indoors! There’s nothing quite like a fresh bouquet of daffodils to brighten up a room. But if you want to keep those sunny blooms from drooping after just a couple of days, you’ll need a few pro tips. In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to keep your daffodils looking fresh and happy for as long as possible.
How to Care for Cut Daffodils
Whether they’re growing in your garden or sitting on your dining table, daffodils are pretty low-maintenance. To keep your cut flowers looking their best, just follow these simple steps:
- Change the water every single day.
- Give the stems a fresh trim every 1 to 2 days using a sharp knife.
- Add a pinch of baking soda or a splash of lemon juice to the water.
- Always use lukewarm water—never ice cold!
- Keep them cool. They’re happiest in temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C to 15°C).
Pro Tip: While daffodils are gorgeous, they don’t last forever in a vase. If you want them to bloom even longer, try placing the entire bulb in a glass of water. It’ll thrive much like it does outdoors and give you a way longer show!
Daffodils Don’t Like to Share
In a garden bed, daffodils look stunning next to other spring flowers. In a vase? Not so much. When you cut a daffodil, it secretes a thick, slimy sap. This slime leaks into the water and creates a toxic environment for other plants. It actually clogs the stems of neighboring flowers, preventing them from drinking. This is why that classic combo of tulips and daffodils usually ends in wilted tulips. If you want both, just put them in separate vases side-by-side!
Pro Tip: This “toxic” behavior only affects other species. You can pack as many different varieties of daffodils together in one vase as you like!
How to Neutralize the Slime
If you’re dead set on a mixed bouquet, you can “pre-treat” your daffodils to make them safe for other flowers. After cutting the stems, dip the ends in hot water. Then, let the daffodils sit in their own separate vase for a few hours to let the sap drain out. Once they’ve finished “bleeding,” you can safely add them to your colorful arrangement.
Choose Your Spot Carefully
That milky sap isn’t just bad for other flowers—it can also cause an itchy rash if it gets on your skin. I always recommend wearing gloves when you’re cutting them. More importantly, keep an eye on your furry friends. Daffodils are toxic to dogs and cats if eaten. Make sure to place your vase on a high shelf or a spot where your pets can’t reach them.
