Learn complete daffodil (Narcissus) flower farming guide including soil, climate, plantation, market demand, health benefits, cost & profit analysis with FAQs.
- Introduction
The daffodil (Narcissus) is one of the most beautiful and symbolic flowers of spring. Known for its bright yellow, white, or orange blooms, daffodil has been admired for centuries as a symbol of rebirth, hope, and positivity. Beyond its ornamental value, daffodil has gained global importance for its medicinal uses, especially in the pharmaceutical industry, where compounds from daffodils are used in Alzheimer’s treatment research.
Today, daffodils are commercially cultivated not just as ornamental flowers but also for their bulbs, essential oils, and medicinal extracts. With strong markets in Europe, North America, and Asia, daffodil farming is both profitable and sustainable for farmers.
- Scientific Name, Origin & Producers
Scientific Name: Narcissus spp.
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Origin: Native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region.
Top Producers: Netherlands, UK, USA, China, New Zealand, Spain.
Export Leaders: Netherlands (bulbs & cut flowers), UK (ornamental & pharmaceutical use).
- Daffodil Flower Farming Guide
a) Soil Requirement
Prefers well-drained sandy loam soil with good organic matter.
Ideal pH: 6.0 – 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Avoid waterlogged soils as bulbs can rot.
b) Climate Requirement
Temperate climate is best for daffodils.
Requires cold winters (10–15°C) for dormancy.
Can tolerate mild frost but not extreme heat.
c) Propagation & Planting
Mainly propagated through bulbs.
Bulbs should be planted in autumn (September–November).
Plant bulbs 10–15 cm deep and 10–12 cm apart in rows.
d) Irrigation
Requires moderate irrigation.
Water immediately after planting.
Avoid excess watering during dormancy stage.
e) Fertilizer & Nutrition
Apply FYM (Farmyard Manure) 20–25 tons/ha before planting.
NPK (10:10:20) recommended.
Foliar spray of micronutrients enhances flower size.
f) Pest & Disease Management
Common pests: Aphids, slugs, bulb flies.
Diseases: Basal rot, narcissus yellow stripe virus.
Control:
Use disease-free bulbs.
Crop rotation with non-bulb plants.
Fungicide treatment before planting.
g) Harvesting
Flowers are harvested when buds are well-formed but not fully open.
Bulbs can be harvested after foliage dries out (usually in late spring).
Store bulbs in cool, dry, and ventilated rooms for next planting or sale.
- Global Market & Trade
Daffodils are one of the most exported spring bulb flowers globally.
Netherlands dominates with more than 70% of global trade.
Market Price:
Fresh cut flowers: $0.30 – $1.00 per stem (retail)
Bulbs: $2000 – $4000 per ton depending on quality
Pharmaceutical extract (galantamine): $3500 – $7000 per kg
Major Importers: USA, Germany, Japan, China, UK, Middle East.
- Uses of Daffodil Flowers
a) Ornamental Use
Widely used in gardens, landscaping, bouquets, and floral decorations.
Popular in spring festivals like St. David’s Day (Wales).
b) Medicinal Use
Contains galantamine, used in Alzheimer’s disease treatment.
Used in traditional remedies for wounds, respiratory issues, and muscle relaxation.
c) Cultural & Religious Importance
Symbol of rebirth, hope, and positivity.
Important in European festivals and celebrations.
d) Cosmetic & Industrial Uses
Daffodil extracts used in perfumes, skincare, and essential oils.
- Health Benefits of Daffodil
Helps improve cognitive function (Alzheimer’s treatment research).
Anti-inflammatory properties.
Supports relaxation & stress relief (aromatherapy).
Antioxidant properties for overall health.
- Precautions & Side Effects
Daffodil bulbs are toxic if consumed raw.
Can cause skin irritation in sensitive people.
Ingestion may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or dizziness.
Always use under professional supervision for medicinal purposes.
- Cost & Profit Analysis (USD)
Investment (per hectare):
Land Preparation: $600 – $800
Bulbs (Planting Material): $1500 – $2500
Fertilizers & Chemicals: $500 – $700
Labor & Maintenance: $800 – $1200
Irrigation & Miscellaneous: $300 – $500
👉 Total Cost: ~$4,000 – $5,500 per hectare
Returns:
Fresh flowers: 40,000 – 50,000 stems per ha
Market price: $0.30 – $0.60 per stem → ~$12,000 – $25,000 revenue
Bulbs resale: Additional $2000 – $4000 per ha
Pharmaceutical extraction (if connected to industries): Extra premium
👉 Net Profit: $8,000 – $18,000 per hectare annually
- FAQs (SEO Optimized)
Q1: What is the best season to plant daffodil bulbs?
👉 Autumn (September–November) is best for planting daffodils.
Q2: How long do daffodil flowers last after harvesting?
👉 Fresh cut daffodils last 5–7 days in water.
Q3: Are daffodils poisonous?
👉 Yes, raw daffodil bulbs are toxic and should not be eaten.
Q4: Can daffodils grow in hot climates?
👉 They prefer temperate climates with cold winters for dormancy.
Q5: Which country is the largest producer of daffodils?
👉 The Netherlands leads the world in daffodil bulb and flower production.
Q6: How profitable is daffodil farming?
👉 A farmer can earn $8,000 – $18,000 per hectare annually.
- Conclusion
Daffodil farming is not just about beauty—it is a highly profitable business with strong demand in ornamental, cultural, and pharmaceutical industries. With proper farming techniques, disease-free bulbs, and access to export markets, farmers can earn excellent returns. The global demand for daffodils in floriculture and medicinal research ensures that this crop will remain valuable for years to come.
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✍️Real Neel
Founder -Farming Writers
Read A Static flower farming full guide
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