Culture of Peruvian Daffodils

Planting Preparation

• Garden beds that receive morning sunlight and light afternoon shade provide optimum sun conditions for Peruvian daffodils. The soil must drain well, because overly wet soil can cause the bulbs to rot. Digging a 2-inch layer of compost into the top 12 inches of soil aids drainage. An application of 5 tablespoons of 10-10-10 fertilizer and 2 cups of bonemeal worked into every 10 square feet of bed provides ample initial nutrition. Sow the bulbs in fall or early spring, planting them with the bulb tip exposed above the soil surface. Space the Peruvian daffodils about 6 inches apart in all directions.

Basic Care

• Peruvian daffodils spend winter dormant. In spring, as growth emerges, they require regular watering. About 1 inch of water weekly, which moistens the soil to a 6-inch depth, provides enough moisture for healthy growth. Fertilize once monthly for the first three months after the first shoots emerge. Apply 2 1/3 tablespoons of soluble 10-10-10 fertilizer to every 10 square feet of bed at each application. The old flowers require removal once they begin to wilt, but leave the foliage on the plants until it dies back naturally in fall.

Weeds and Problems

• Pests rarely affect Peruvian daffodils, although they may contract mosaic virus. This fatal condition causes the foliage to develop mottling, and the plant becomes stunted or deformed. There is no cure, and infected plants must be destroyed so that the virus doesn't spread. Weeds that invade the garden bed can hamper Peruvian daffodil growth. A 2-inch layer of mulch suppresses most weed growth while helping retain soil moisture. Pull any weeds that grow through the mulch promptly so that they don't establish deep roots.

Dormant Care

• After the foliage dies back, Peruvian daffodils enter a dormant phase. The plants don't require regular watering or fertilization during dormancy. You can dig up and divide the bulbs every three years if the bed becomes crowded. Break apart the bulbs and replant them at the proper depth and spacing. Peruvian daffodils survive winter in areas that rarely experience frost. Replenishing the mulch layer in fall provides cold protection. In cooler climates, dig up the bulbs in fall without damaging the fleshy roots. Dry the bulbs for about one week, and then store them in an open tray in a dark cool place, such as in an unheated basement. Replant the bulbs in spring.