Daffodils Early Emergence

I've noticed several daffodils starting to emerge -- some are as much as one inch above the soil. In my many years of gardening I've never before noticed this with daffodils. We've had an unusually early frost and colder than normal autumn this year. I had to dump soil on the sprouts since rabbits were starting to nibble.

Have any of you noticed early daffodil sprouts in your garden?

I'm certainly in favor of an early spring!

No way! If they are in Oak Lawn then I need to check on mine. Those poor daffs got so confused with this kinda weather.

My Siberian Iris' and Grape Hyacinth are poking through the soil - I hope they won't be ruined (particularily the iris).

They'll be alright, as long as the flower spike don't emerge. My garlic is sprouting!

Tom

We've had similar weather in central Iowa. I have not noticed my daffodils emerging, but my Dutch Iris' have sprouted (10 to 12 inches high). No flower spike yet, but I have heard that covering them with lots of mulch may help protect them through the rest of the winter. Although, the stem tips have suffered some frost damage, otherwise they seem okay. Could these be treated like Bearded Iris and trim the stems back?

On the daffodils, I would cover them with straw or shreaded leaves just to make sure they stay protected. Mulch is easier to remove in the spring from around the plants is you need to maintain a certain soil level. Remember, daffodils don't mind some cold weather and are just confused. I am sure you will have even colder weather and they just need some protection for now. Good luck!

Dave

This message was edited Nov 24, 2006 6:50 AM

daffodils are poking their heads in texas too. some other flowers are just beginning to bloom.

I appreciate all of your feedback! Colder weather is on the way -- so I'm sure the daffodils will go back to sleep!!

Just to add a note from 7b, NC:

I planted some rescued Narcissus 'Van Sion' a few weeks ago. They are lots of them up about 2" and today I noticed one is showing a bud!

The bulbs were stored dry at room temperature (low 70's, AC) until planting time. They were planted *very* deeply and had been there for decades. I'm wondering if that could possibly be influencing their early showing.....At the depth they were in for so long, it would take a while for the soil to warm up in spring and maybe they have acclimatized to that. They are planted at 3-4" now, and are exposed to more changes in the weather now.

Robert.
Removed extra "weather".



This message was edited Dec 19, 2006 2:48 PM

I keep covering my daffodil "sprouts" with soil and mulch to keep the rabbits from eating them. They are continuing to grow through the mulch.

The other day I noticed some crocus and hyacinth starting to emerge. One can only hope that this is a sign of a mild (and short) winter!

No tulips, yet!!!