Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 6/7/2005

Question
Hello,

I am thinking of giving out daffodil bulbs as favors at my wedding next summer (June 2006).  However, this would require ordering the bulbs this coming fall (2005), and guests would not be able to plant them until after the wedding - fall 2006.  Is it even possible to store bulbs for a year?  If so, what is the best way for me to care for them prior to the wedding?  Would freezing them help?  Daffodils are one of my favorite flowers, but if daffodil bulbs are too delicate, could you recommend any hardier bulbs that might do better in a year of storage, if any exist?

For the record, the vast majority of expected guests live between Pennsylvania and North Carolina - all places where daffodils will do well, I think!

I sincerely appreciate any advice you can offer!

Thank you,
Alexandra

Answer
I would contact a wholesaler (try brentandbeckysbulbs.com or johnscheepers.com) and ask them about the possibility because this require purchasing bulbs out of season.

The best result would you have if you buy early harvest of american daffodils (harvested in may) and shipped directly to you by the grower. This way the bulbs would be fresh and capable of blooming if stored cool and dry (fridge) by your guests.