Daffodil 'Butter and Eggs' Narcissus 'Butter and Eggs' (4)

Water

Daffodils, including the 'Butter and Eggs' variety, should be watered thoroughly at planting and then require a moderate amount of water during the growing season. They prefer to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Generally, watering once a week with about 1-inch of water, which is roughly 0.6 gallons per square yard, is sufficient. However, during dry spells, they may need additional water. Decrease watering once the foliage begins to yellow and die back after blooming, as the bulbs enter dormancy.

Light

Daffodils, such as the 'Butter and Eggs' variety, thrive best in full sun to partial shade. They need direct sunlight for at least half the day to bloom well, although in very hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial. Plant them in a spot where they can receive unfiltered morning light and some protection from the intense afternoon sun for optimal growth.

Temperature

Daffodils, including 'Butter and Eggs,' prefer cool to moderate temperatures and are hardy in a wide range of climates. They can tolerate winter lows down to about -20°F and are typically hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8. The ideal temperature range for growing daffodils is between 50°F and 70°F during their growth period in the spring.

Pruning

Daffodils like 'Butter and Eggs' require minimal pruning. The main reason to prune is to remove spent flowers to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. After blooming, cut back the flower stalks but allow the leaves to die back naturally. Pruning the leaves too soon can harm the bulb's ability to store energy for the next season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Daffodil 'Butter and Eggs' thrives in well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix with equal parts garden soil, peat, and sand or perlite is ideal to ensure good drainage and provide a hospitable environment for bulb growth.

Repotting

Daffodils, including 'Butter and Eggs', don't require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted only when the clumps become overcrowded, typically every 3 to 5 years.

Humidity & Misting

Daffodil 'Butter and Eggs' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity considerations. Humidity found in average outdoor conditions is suitable.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Plant Daffodil 'Butter and Eggs' in sunny spots with well-drained soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Narcissus 'Butter and Eggs', commonly known as the double daffodil, starts with a bulb which undergoes a period of dormancy, usually during the summer months when the plant is not actively growing. In autumn, roots begin to develop as the temperatures cool and the days shorten. The foliage emerges from the bulb in late winter to early spring, depending on the climate, followed by the distinctive double flowers that have a blend of yellow and orange hues. After blooming, the flowers fade and the plant directs energy into the leaves which manufacture food through photosynthesis to replenish the bulb. Once the leaves yellow and wither, the plant returns to dormancy, and the bulb rests until the next growing cycle begins. Seed production is rare, as this cultivar is typically propagated through bulb division.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Narcissus 'Butter and Eggs', commonly known as Daffodil, is through division of its bulbs. This process ideally takes place in the late summer to fall, after the foliage has died back and the bulbs have gone dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them by hand, making sure that each division has at least one growth point. The separated bulbs should then be planted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to allow for enough room for the new plants to grow. Watering the bulbs after planting helps to settle the soil around them and provides a good start for the next growing season.