Daffodil Narcissus 'Sun Disc' (7)

Water

When caring for a Daffodil 'Sun Disc', water it thoroughly so that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, this usually translates to about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or manual watering. It is crucial to ensure even moisture, especially during the spring growth and flowering period. When the Daffodils are dormant in the summer, reduce watering significantly and allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions. For potted Daffodils 'Sun Disc', watering might be needed more frequently, as containers can dry out faster; check the top inch of the soil and water when it feels dry.

Light

The Daffodil 'Sun Disc' thrives in full to partial sunlight, making it important to plant this flower in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade can lead to weak stems and fewer blooms. The ideal spot for a Daffodil 'Sun Disc' is where morning sunlight is abundant and there's some protection from the intense afternoon sun.

Temperature

Daffodils 'Sun Disc' prefer moderate temperatures and can typically handle the climate in USDA zones 3 through 8. They are cold-hardy and can survive winter temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but they perform best when the spring temperatures are between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Once established, they can tolerate summer heat, but it is the chill of winter that is necessary for their dormancy period.

Pruning

Pruning is not necessary for Daffodils 'Sun Disc'; however, it's important to deadhead the spent blooms to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent seed production, which can divert energy from bulb development. After flowering, leave the foliage in place and only remove leaves when they have yellowed and withered, which is typically several weeks after blooming. This allows the plant to store energy in the bulb for the next season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Narcissus, commonly known as daffodil, should be well-draining and moderately fertile. Incorporate organic matter like compost to improve soil structure and drainage. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.0, for optimal growth.

Repotting

Daffodils, including the 'Sun Disc' variety, typically do not require frequent repotting and are often left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted only when they become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years.

Humidity & Misting

Daffodils prefer average humidity levels. While they are not particular about humidity, maintaining moderate ambient humidity around the plant will suffice.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of a 'Sun Disc' daffodil begins with a dormant bulb which is usually planted in the fall. As temperatures increase in spring, the bulb breaks dormancy and produces green, strap-like leaves, followed by a central stalk that bears a single, cheerful yellow flower with a slightly darker central cup. After flowering, the plant focuses on photosynthesis and stores energy in the bulb for the next year's growth. Once the leaves yellow and die back in late spring to early summer, the plant enters dormancy again. Throughout summer and fall, the bulb remains underground, with the cycle repeating the following spring. The bulb can also reproduce asexually by producing offsets, which can be separated and planted to propagate new plants.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Narcissus 'Sun Disc', commonly known as the daffodil, is typically propagated by dividing and separating the bulbs. This process is ideally done in the late summer to autumn, after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. Gardeners dig up the clump of bulbs and gently separate them, making sure that each section has at least one bulb with some roots attached. These individual bulbs can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), spaced 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 centimeters) apart, to give them enough room to grow. The newly planted bulbs will then lie dormant over winter and emerge as new plants in the spring. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in propagating the daffodil.