Harvesting Daffodils for Cut Flowers in a Vase

Can you believe that I’ve been doing this blog thing for 5 years now? In fact, one of the very first posts that I ever made was about using daffodils as cut flowers. You can see it by clicking here.  I’m happy to say that those original daffodil bulbs are still producing flowers. That’s one of the main reasons that I love these bulbs so much. I know a lot of people would go ahead and just delete a low quality post like that, but I think it’s important. For perspective’s sake, if there’s something you’ve always wanted to do – just go for it. Time will pass regardless, so you might as well start. 🙂 

Here’s some of the daffodils I picked today. I’ve been away for several days, so instead of picking them at the optimal time, I went ahead and put this bunch in a vase just for myself. These bright colors make me so happy.

It seems that every year I’m adding more and more types of daffodils. I know I’ve said it before, but wouldn’t it be so lovely to have a huge field full of these blooms?!

Okay, seriously. Just one more close-up picture before I start talking about how I go about picking these. Before picking, make sure you grab a pair of good quality gloves. Daffodils are toxic, and the sap that oozes out of them can be especially irritating. Make sure not to touch your face, always wash your hands, etc.

Each daffodil flower has what I call a protective sheath. I’m sure there’s a real name for it, but I don’t know it. Anyhow, when that outer layer completely covers the bud and is green, the flower is definitely not ready to pick for a vase. Just let it grow some more.

In this photo, you’ll see that the sheath has started to change color and has been split open by the bud. This flower might open in the vase, but I personally like to let them progress just a little bit more.

These daffodils are perfect for flower arrangements! You’ll see that the sheath part has turned brown and the bud is completely free of it. Also, the flower has developed its bright color. To the touch, this flower bud is also soft and starting to open.

To pick, I like to reach down to the base of the plant (with gloved hands) and snap the stem from the bulb. Remember that toxic sap, well it flows very freely from the stems when cut. This goo will also cause problems if you mix the daffodil flowers with other flower types in an arrangement. To better prevent any issues, allow daffodils to condition in their own vase for at least 24 hours before arranging. Hope that helps!

One thought on “Harvesting Daffodils for Cut Flowers in a Vase

  1. Do you simply snap them with your hand or use scissors? Also, does each stem that shoots up usually end up producing a flower? If yes, does that tend to happen simultaneously for each plant, or does each stem take turns blooming?

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