Description
Daffodil Fragrant Cottage Mixed
Daffodils (Narcissus), members of the Amaryllidaceae family, are beloved spring-flowering perennials known for their fragrance and charm. Native to Europe and North Africa, these bulbs thrive in various climates and naturalise effortlessly, returning each year.
Daffodil Fragrant Cottage Mixed is a carefully selected collection of fragrant daffodils, chosen for their captivating scent and timeless appeal. Some varieties produce multiple flowers per stem, while others showcase classic single blooms, creating a layered, lasting display. Due to seasonal availability, selection may vary, but each bloom will contribute to a stunningly perfumed garden.
Uses and Versatility
Fragrant daffodils are highly versatile and well-suited for borders, garden beds, pots, and containers. Their scented blooms create a welcoming atmosphere in gardens and make excellent cut flowers, allowing you to bring their wonderful fragrance indoors. They naturalise beautifully, returning each year with little effort, making them an excellent low-maintenance choice for formal landscapes and naturalised plantings.
Climate Preferences
Daffodils can grow in cool to mild tropical climates but thrive in regions with cold winters and mild springs, where conditions are ideal for strong growth and flowering. Most fragrant varieties are more adaptable and can tolerate warmer climates better than other daffodils. However, in areas with short, hot springs or insufficient winter chill, they are best treated as annuals. In warm regions, pre-chill bulbs for 6–8 weeks before planting to ensure flowering. Keep away from ripening fruit.
When to Plant
Plant from March onwards, ensuring bulbs have time to establish strong roots before winter. Cooler soil temperatures are essential for healthy growth and successful flowering. In warmer regions, planting is best done in late April or May when the summer heat has subsided.
How to Plant
- Site Selection: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
- Planting Depth and Spacing: Plant bulbs 10–15 cm deep and 10–15 cm apart to allow for healthy growth.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil but avoid overwatering until new growth emerges.
Aftercare
- Watering: Keep the soil moderately moist during the growing and blooming period, reducing watering as foliage begins to die back.
- Fertilising: Apply a balanced fertiliser (NPK 6:6:6 or azalea and camellia food) after flowering, before the foliage yellows, to support next season’s blooms.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to redirect energy back to the bulbs.
- Foliage: Allow leaves to die back naturally to replenish energy for the next growing season.
- Mulching: Apply a 5 cm layer of mulch after planting to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds—especially beneficial in warmer climates to keep the soil cool.
Division and Maintenance
Fragrant daffodils multiply gradually, forming clumps over time. To maintain healthy blooms, bulbs should be divided every 3–5 years or when overcrowding reduces flowering. Lift and separate offsets once the foliage has completely died back, store bulbs in a cool, dry place, and replant in autumn for continued flowering success.
Pests and Diseases
Fragrant daffodils are generally hardy, but may occasionally be affected by:
- Pests: Aphids, slugs, snails, and Narcissus bulb flies can damage foliage and bulbs.
- Diseases: Basal rot, grey mould, and viral infections, often linked to excess moisture or poor air circulation.
To minimise these risks, plant in well-draining soil, ensure good airflow and use organic pest control methods when necessary.
Safety
Daffodils contain lycorine, a toxic compound found in all parts of the plant, especially the bulbs. Ingesting them can cause stomach discomfort, and the sap may irritate the skin. Store bulbs safely and plant them out of reach of children and pets. Wearing gloves when handling bulbs is recommended.
CAUTION: Harmful if eaten/skin and eye irritant.
Supplied as dormant bulbs.