How to Winterize Peruvian Daffodils

Peruvian daffodils (Hymenocallis x festalis) are summer blooming bulbs that are tender in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 7 and cooler. In these climates, the bulbs must be winterized indoors. Dig up Peruvian daffodils before the first expected frost, which is unlike most tender bulbs that can be dig up after a frost kills the foliage. Wait until spring, when night time temperatures are consistently above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, to replant Peruvian daffodils.

Garden fork
Hand clippers
Container
Vermiculite or sand

Instructions

- 1
  Dig around the Peruvian daffodils with a garden fork, loosening the roots. Dig under the bulbs and lift them by pushing down on the handle of the garden fork. Peruvian daffodils are planted about 3 to 5 inches deep.
- 2
  Move the bulbs to a warm location, where frost is not a threat, to dry out for about two weeks. A garage or basement might be the ideal location.
- 3
  Cut off the dried foliage with a pair of hand clippers. Divide the bulbs, if desired. The small bulbs forming on the sides of the parent bulbs should pull off easily. If you decide to plant the smaller bulbs in the spring, be aware that they may not bloom the first two years or so.
- 4
  Store the healthy looking bulbs upside down in a container filled with dried vermiculite or sand. Store in a dry, room-temperature location, about 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

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