How to Save Narcissus Bulbs

Lift bulbs out of the ground with a spading fork when narcissus flowers become smaller and fewer in number. This might not occur until the fifth or sixth year after planting as plants become crowded due to bulbs developing bulblets. Dig bulbs out as soon as the plants' foliage, or tops, begin to die back to find the bulbs more readily, the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service recommends.

Divide the bulblets from the bulbs if desired by simply pulling them apart gently with your fingers. This job can also be done in fall before bulbs are planted. Flowers grown from bulblets will be identical to those of the "mother" bulb.

Store, or save, the bulbs by cutting off the yellowed, dried foliage. Then, gently wash off any remaining soil, dry off and store the bulbs in shallow boxes in a cool, dry, airy place, away from pests until fall, according to Cornell University Home Gardening. Also protect bulbs from direct sunlight.

Replant bulbs in the fall before the ground freezes in well-draining, fertile soil. A good rule of thumb, according to the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service, is to plant narcissus bulbs twice as deep as their largest diameter in medium to heavy soils. For example, a 3-inch diameter bulb should be planted 6 inches deep. In sandy soils, plant them approximately three times deeper than their largest diameter. Space 3 inches apart for small narcissus bulbs and 5 to 7 inches for large ones to provide adequate room for growth.