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As the season goes on, the more fragrant varieties arrive.
Many of these have smaller flowers, but more than one bloom
per stem, such as the lovely white 'Thalia' with its reflexed
petals and the fragrant 'Petrel'. Signaling the end of the
show at my place is my absolute favorite, the scented 'Actaea',
with its white petals and small yellow cup edged in red.
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| (Narcissus)
'Salome'. |
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(Narcissus)
'Actaea'. |
The only downside of daffodils is the foliage aftermath.
Unlike the leaves of most spring bulbs, daffodil foliage lasts,
and lasts—and lasts some more. And unlike the Narcissus of
myth, it isn't pretty.
Gardeners know that it's essential to keep the foliage so
that the daffodil can manufacture food from sunlight to bulk
up for next year's flowers. To minimize the temptation to
cut back the foliage, try hiding it instead. For example,
plant daffodils—which benefit from early fall planting—next
to later-blooming perennials such as peonies, tall sedums
and Siberian irises. They will grow and hide the leaves. Or
strategically place container plantings or tall annuals to
divert attention.
But most of all, don't let this small drawback stop you from
experimenting with this vast, easy and cheerful group of spring
bulbs.
Lorri MacKay
Master Gardener
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