Narcissus 'Wheatear' (6)

Water

Daffodils, which include the Narcissus 'Wheatear', prefer to be watered deeply and infrequently rather than little and often. During the growing season, water the daffodils when the top inch of soil feels dry, which is approximately once a week, with 1 gallon of water per square yard. Cut back on watering once the flowers have died back and the foliage has yellowed, signaling the end of their growth cycle. During dormancy in summer, daffodils require no additional watering unless the season is exceptionally dry. Always avoid overwatering, as daffodils are prone to rot if left in moist soil too long.

Light

Daffodils thrive in full to partial sunlight. The ideal spot for daffodils is a location where they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate light afternoon shade, especially in hot climates, but too much shade can lead to poor blooming. Ensure they are planted away from tall trees or shrubs that may cast too much shade on them throughout the day.

Temperature

The daffodil is quite cold-hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for many temperate climates. However, they perform best when they experience a period of chilly temperatures, ideally between 35 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which helps stimulate flower production. The bulb should not be exposed to prolonged temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, as excessive heat can damage the bulb and affect future growth.

Pruning

Daffodils typically require minimal pruning. After the daffodils have bloomed and the flowers have faded, you can deadhead the spent flowers to prevent seed formation, which can divert energy from the bulb. However, leave the foliage in place until it turns yellow and withers, which allows the bulbs to gather energy for the next blooming season. This usually occurs a few weeks after blooming.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

The best soil mix for daffodils, including Narcissus 'Wheatear', should be well-draining with the addition of organic matter like compost. A mixture of equal parts garden soil, coarse sand, and peat or compost works well. The ideal soil pH for daffodils is between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Daffodils, such as the Narcissus 'Wheatear', typically do not need frequent repotting. They can be left undisturbed in the ground or in pots for several years. When clumps become crowded, usually every 3 to 5 years, they should be lifted and divided after foliage dies back.

Humidity & Misting

Daffodils like Narcissus 'Wheatear' are not particularly humidity sensitive and do well in average humidity conditions. They do not require special humidity levels and can thrive in the humidity normally found outdoors or in a typical home environment.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temperatures, and good air circulation for indoor daffodils.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained soil, full to partial sunlight, and water moderately.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Narcissus 'Wheatear', commonly known as the Daffodil, starts its life cycle as a bulb planted in the fall before the first frost. The bulb experiences a period of dormancy over winter, during which it requires cold temperatures to trigger the development of the flower bud. In early spring, the plant emerges from the bulb as a shoot and develops into a full stem with strap-like leaves and usually a single flower. Once flowering concludes, the plant undergoes photosynthesis for a period to generate and store energy in the bulb for the next growing season. The foliage then yellows and dies back as the plant enters dormancy again through summer and fall. Finally, the plant remains in this dormant state until the next growth cycle is triggered by cool winter temperatures.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Daffodil 'Wheatear' is through division of its bulbs. This is typically done in late summer to autumn, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. Gardeners dig up the bulbs, gently separate them into individual bulbs, and replant them immediately. Each bulb separated from the parent plant should have a portion of the base and some root remains attached to ensure successful growth. The new planting holes should be about 6 inches deep, allowing the bulbs to be covered with soil and spaced 3 to 6 inches apart to provide adequate room for growth. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in propagating daffodils, resulting in flowering plants within one to two seasons.