When you think of a daffodil you probably think of the traditional yellow trumpet variety. This variety of this common bulb is by far the most common. However, if you love daffodils, you will be delighted to learn that there are many easy to grow and beautiful daffodil varieties available. Let’s look at just a few of them.

Trumpet Daffodil

These daffodils are by far the most common. The trumpet on these flowers is longer than the overall length of the leaves. This results in a strong and noticeable contrast between the two. There are all yellow trumpet daffodils which have yellow petals and a yellow trumpet. You will also find bi- color trumpets. These flowers have petals in one color and a trumpet in another.

Large and Small Cupped Daffodil

These daffodils are similar in appearance to the traditional trumpet daffodils. However, there is a little variation when it comes to the size of the trumpet in the center. With the large cupped daffodils as the name implies, the center is wider and shorter. Conversely, the small cupped daffodils have a short, small center trumpet. These daffodils are just as beautiful as their more famous siblings and can add a distinct and beautiful look to any garden.

Double Daffodils

With double daffodils, there are multiple layers of either petals, trumpet or both. These flowers are very unique and dramatic looking. If you want daffodils, but are looking for a real conversation piece, these are the flowers for you.

Split Cupped Daffodil

These daffodils don’t posses the traditional, daffodil looking cup. Rather, they almost look like one flower resting a top another. These unique flowers are stunningly beautiful and come in both straight and ruffled varieties.

These are just a few of the many daffodil varieties out there. You will also find miniature daffodils, clustered daffodil and more. Many of these varieties have several available colors of flowers as well. If you love daffodils, don’t just limit yourself to traditional yellow ones. Try some of these fun varieties and add some excitement to your flowerbeds next spring.

A long cold winter without flowers can be difficult for an avid gardener. Luckily, there is a fun and simple solution to your problem. If you want to enjoy beautiful flowers all year long, consider forcing a few bulbs for winter enjoyment. Here’s how to do it if you haven’t ever forced bulbs before.

When forcing bulbs, you are basically tricking the bulb by manipulating their environment. By controlling temperature, water and light, you can force a bulb to bloom early and thus provide beautiful color during the winter. The best bulbs produce the best results, so always work with top quality bulbs that are firm and disease free. Daffodils, tulips, hyacinths and crocus work especially well.

Winter Planting: Your Bulbs Need to Chill

Prepare several pots for planting. Remember, bulbs need soil with good drainage, so be sure that any pots selected have drainage holes. Fill the pots with potting soil. When forcing bulbs, pack the bulbs into the pot. The bulbs should be very close together even close to touching. Cover most of the bulb with soil but leave the tips sticking out.

Place your planted pot into a box or other dark container. Place the pot outdoors if it’s already cold, or in the refrigerator. Your bulbs will need at least three months in the cold. Make sure that they are kept cold long enough, or you will not get any blooms. Storing your bulbs for longer in the cold will not create any problems. You will know your bulbs are ready when you see a couple inches of green shoots poking out of the bulb.

Once you remove your bulbs from their cold storage home, place your pot in a cool location. Near an entry way or a window should work well. Water regularly and ensure that your bulbs do not dry out. Once buds develop, move your pot to a sunny location for display and blooming. Your flowers will last longer in cooler temperatures. If your house is warmer than 65 degrees, your blooms may fade and die quickly.

If you want to enjoy spring during the winter, force some bulbs this fall and get the floral boost you are craving a little early this year.