Daffodil Bud Blast: Why Buds Form But Won't Open

Weather-Related Physiological Disorder

When daffodil buds develop but fail to open, the condition is called bud blast. It's typically triggered by severe temperature fluctuations—especially hard freezes after buds have formed. Double-flowered varieties are more susceptible than singles.

Management Steps

1. Clip off and dispose of affected buds (do not compost).
2. Leave foliage intact until it yellows naturally to feed the bulb.
3. Fertilize in December with a balanced bulb fertilizer.

With proper care, plants usually recover and bloom normally the following year.