Expert: Gary Bachman - 5/30/2004

Question
Hello Gary

Could you tell me when I should cut back the stalk and leaves on tulips and daffodils after the flowers have gone.

Thanks

Lawrence

Answer
Lawrence,

Once the flower is past its prime go ahead and remove the spent flower so the plant does not expend energy in producing seeds.

This does not apply to the leaves.  The leaves should remain intact for about 6 weeks.  This allows the plant to gather light energy and produce photosynthates that will used in replenishing the bulb for next year.  

If you go to www.bloomingtonnormal.com later this week there will be an article I have written on this very subject along with ideas to hide the bulb foliage.

Good luck in the garden.

Gary