No-Bloom Bulbs

I planted daffodil bulbs last fall, but have yet to see any blooms. What's wrong? —Grace Eager, Randolph, Wisconsin

Melinda: This is a common complaint of northern gardeners growing early daffodils. The flowering stems often break through the ground undetected in early spring only to be nipped by frost. Try incorporating some mid-spring-blooming daffodils to ensure a colorful spring display.

It's also important to allow the daffodil leaves to yellow and brown naturally each spring. This enables the plant to replace spent energy for better flowering the following spring. That will mean showier blooms for you!