Daffodils are a beloved flower in the UK, signalling the start of spring with their cheery yellow hue.
These pretty spring flowers work just as well in containers, borders and planted across lawns, and will adapt to any garden style.
Typically flowering between February and May, they're one of the lowest-maintenance spring-flowering bulbs, requiring little maintenance and returning annually. But there is one crucial task that experts recommend gardeners carry out in April to ensure a vibrant display next year.
Like with many spring flowers, keeping on top of deadheading will help extend their bloom and ensure they return in full force next year.
The RHS advises deadheading daffodils in April by removing faded flowers as the blooming season comes to a close.
They suggest: "Remove flowers from larger bulbs, such as daffodils, cutting or pinching through the flower stalk just behind the bulbous seed capsule.
"Leave the green flower stalk in place as this photosynthesises (produces food), helping to build up the bulb to flower well next season."
Don't wait until the flower completely dies before removing it, as this can cause the plant to waste more energy on seed production.
Instead, deadhead daffodils as soon as the petals begin to wilt and turn brown (typically around six to eight weeks after blooming).
Deadheading in spring is essential for plant health. Not only does it boost the appearance of flowers, but it also redirects energy to stronger growth of the living flowers and more flowers instead of creating unwanted seed pods.
"It's worth regularly removing spent blooms from spring bedding plants like pansies, violas and primroses," Charlotte Denne, an award-winning horticulturist and co-owner of Kent Wildflower Seeds, explains.
"This helps direct the plant’s energy back into producing new flowers rather than setting seed and keeps displays looking fresh as temperatures begin to rise."
Deadheading should make up a large proportion of a gardener's to-do list in April. Tulips will benefit from regular deadheading, as well as bedding plants such as pansies and violas.
Put other spring-flowering shrubs like rhododendrons and camellias on your deadheading list as well, as this will help promote further growth in the season.
