Daffodil 'Lemon Drops' Narcissus 'Lemon Drops' (5)

Water

Daffodils, commonly known as 'Lemon Drops', require moderate watering. During their growth in spring, it's best to water them thoroughly, ensuring the soil is damp to a depth of about 1 inch. Once established, they need about 1 gallon of water per week, depending on the weather conditions. After flowering, reduce watering as they enter dormancy. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so it's essential to let the soil dry out somewhat between waterings.

Light

Daffodils thrive in full to partial sunlight. They perform best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for planting 'Lemon Drops' is an area that enjoys early morning light and some afternoon shade, as intense heat can harm their delicate blooms. Avoid deeply shaded areas as this could hinder flower production.

Temperature

Daffodils are hardy flowers that can survive in a wide range of temperatures. The ideal growing temperature for 'Lemon Drops' is between 50°F and 70°F. They can withstand winter cold down to about 20°F, and while in bloom, they can handle light frosts. However, they don't fare well in extreme heat above 80°F for extended periods.

Pruning

Daffodils, like 'Lemon Drops', benefit from deadheading after flowering to prevent seed pod formation, which can drain energy from the bulb. However, do not remove the foliage until it has yellowed and withered, typically 6 weeks after blooming, as this period allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy for the next year. Pruning is generally not needed other than removing spent flowers and yellowing leaves.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Daffodil 'Lemon Drops' prefers well-draining soil with a mix of loam, peat, and sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration. The best soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0. Adding compost or aged manure to the soil can provide essential nutrients for optimal growth.

Repotting

Daffodils, including the 'Lemon Drops' variety, do not need to be repotted very often. They should be repotted every 3 to 5 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally before lifting and dividing the bulbs for repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Daffodil 'Lemon Drops' tolerates a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions. Average room humidity is generally suitable for this plant, making it an adaptable choice for indoor environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Daffodil 'Lemon Drops' in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Plant 'Lemon Drops' in fall; ensure full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Daffodil 'Lemon Drops' begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in the fall, just before the ground freezes. This bulb remains dormant through the winter, storing energy for growth. In early spring, the bulb sends up shoots and leaves, followed by the development of distinctive yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. After blooming, the plant goes through a period of photosynthesis and energy collection, which is stored in the bulb for the next season. Once the leaves die back in late spring to early summer, the daffodil 'Lemon Drops' enters a period of dormancy once again. The cycle repeats each year, with the bulb potentially dividing to form new bulbs over time, which can be separated and replanted to propagate the plant.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Narcissus 'Lemon Drops', commonly known as daffodil, is through dividing its bulbs. This is best done in the late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back and the bulbs have become dormant. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate the offsets, which are the smaller bulbs that have developed at the base of the parent bulb. Replant these offsets immediately, placing them at a depth of about 6 inches (15 cm) and spaced approximately 5 to 6 inches (12 to 15 cm) apart to ensure they have enough space to grow. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help them establish. This method is highly effective since it maintains the attributes of the parent plant and offsets typically flower in a couple of years.