Daffodil Narcissus 'Gillan' (11a)

Water

For the Daffodil 'Gillian', it is best to water deeply and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent over-watering and potential bulb rot. Typically, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water should be sufficient, depending on the climate and soil type. During the growing season in spring, make sure to provide consistent moisture. However, once the foliage begins to die back after flowering, reduce watering. No water is necessary during the summer dormancy period when the bulbs are underground.

Light

Daffodil 'Gillian' thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. The ideal spot is where the plant can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, in hot climates, dappled shade during the peak afternoon sun can help protect the blooms from excessive heat.

Temperature

Daffodil 'Gillian' prefers cool to moderate temperature conditions, ideally ranging between 50°F and 70°F. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 20°F and maximum temperatures up to 75°F comfortably. The bulb should be planted in autumn to ensure a cold dormancy period which is crucial for spring blooming.

Pruning

Pruning Daffodil 'Gillian' generally involves deadheading spent blooms to encourage the plant to redirect energy into bulb growth. Do not cut back the foliage until it has yellowed and withered, usually six weeks after flowering, as this period allows the plant to store energy for the next season. Pruning is low-maintenance and typically done once the blooming period is over.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Daffodil 'Gillian' prefers well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and compost, with a pH between 6 and 7.

Repotting

Daffodil 'Gillian' should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh soil and separate overcrowded bulbs.

Humidity & Misting

Daffodil 'Gillian' tolerates average humidity levels found in most homes without the need for adjustment.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately moist.

• Outdoor

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

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA.

Life cycle

Narcissus 'Gillan', commonly known as Daffodil 'Gillan', begins its life cycle when a bulb is planted in the ground, typically in the fall before the first frost. During the winter, the bulb undergoes a period of cold dormancy which is necessary for spring growth. With the onset of warmer temperatures and spring rains, the bulb sprouts and produces long, narrow leaves, followed by a central stalk that bears the characteristic flowers, typically in late winter to early spring. After flowering, the plant directs energy back into the bulb as the leaves photosynthesize to replenish its energy reserves. Once the foliage dies back naturally, the plant goes into a dormant state throughout the summer months. The bulb can remain in the ground, where it will begin the cycle anew the following spring, or it can be divided and replanted to propagate new plants.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Narcissus 'Gillan', commonly known as Daffodil 'Gillan', is by dividing and transplanting the bulbs. This is typically done in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. To propagate, carefully dig around the daffodil clumps and gently lift them out of the ground with a garden fork. The bulbs can then be separated by hand, as offsets will readily detach from the parent bulb. It is important to ensure that each division has at least one growing point or 'nose.' After dividing, the bulbs should be replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (about 15 cm) and spaced approximately 6 inches (15 cm) apart to allow for ample growing room. This method is simple and effective, often leading to a healthy bloom in the following spring.