Newport Daffodillion Handing Out Free Daffodil Bulbs

NEWPORT, RI — Anyone who has ever visited Newport in the spring knows how important daffodils are to the City By the Sea. Each year, the sunny yellow flowers overtake the city, springing up just in time for the Daffodil Days Festival.

This year's daffodils are long gone, but preparations are underway for next year. Since fall is the time to plant bulbs, Daffodillion, the city-wide beautification campaign is once again giving away free bulbs.

"Daffodillion's civic beautification campaign, planted its one millionth daffodil this past fall, thanks to all who donated to purchase and plant bulbs during the past years," said Project Director John Hirschboeck. "Everyone’s work this fall will yield a bounty of beauty next April - and for years to come."

While supplies last, bulbs will be handed out at the Broadway Street Fair on Oct. 12 from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m., at the Easton's Beach Rotunda from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Oct. 19 and at the Middletown Aquidneck Island Grower's Market from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Oct. 26.

Each bag will have two dozen bulbs, which usually sells for about $15, along with planting instructions.