Daffodil Bulbs (Trumpet) - King Alfred

Daffodil Bulbs (Trumpet) - King Alfred

The King Alfred Daffodil is a classic and beloved variety, known for its large, trumpet-shaped blooms and vibrant yellow petals. This stunning flower is a symbol of spring, bringing a burst of cheerful color to gardens and landscapes. King Alfred is prized for its robust growth, excellent flower size, and ability to thrive in various garden conditions, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Yellow Blooms: Features large, trumpet-shaped flowers with brilliant yellow petals and a golden trumpet center.
• Reliable & Hardy: King Alfred Daffodils are known for their strong resilience, thriving in various climates and returning year after year.
• Early Spring Bloomer: A herald of spring, providing a burst of color when most gardens are still waking up from winter.
• Low Maintenance: Once planted, these daffodils require minimal care and maintenance, making them ideal for beginner gardeners.
• Perfect for Naturalizing: Great for mass planting, creating stunning drifts of color in borders, beds, or meadows.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Tall, upright stems that support large, trumpet-shaped flowers with a classic yellow hue.
• Flower Profile: Large, showy blooms with a vibrant yellow corona and deep golden trumpet, offering a cheerful visual appeal.
• Growth Habit: Daffodils grow from bulbs and form a cluster of long, slender leaves that surround the flower stalks.
• Size: Typically grows to about 12–16 inches tall, with flowers up to 4–5 inches in diameter.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best planted in the fall, giving the bulbs time to establish roots before winter for an early spring bloom.
• Ideal planting time is in late September to early November.

Planting Details

• Depth: Plant bulbs 4–6 inches deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs 4–6 inches apart for a fuller display.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade. Daffodils thrive in sunny spots but can tolerate some light shade, especially in warmer climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs.
• After that, daffodils are relatively drought-tolerant but benefit from regular watering during dry spells. Water deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or bone meal at planting time to encourage strong root growth and healthy blooms.
• Fertilize again in the spring as the shoots begin to emerge, using a slow-release fertilizer.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area around the daffodils free of weeds to avoid competition for nutrients.
• Apply mulch around the bulbs to retain moisture, keep the soil cool, and reduce weed growth.

Post-Bloom Care

• After the flowers fade, leave the foliage intact as it helps the bulb store energy for the following year’s bloom.
• Cut back the leaves only once they turn yellow and wither naturally to ensure the bulb has enough energy to recharge.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Daffodils are generally resistant to pests. However, watch out for rodents, such as squirrels, that may dig up the bulbs.
• Diseases: Daffodils are susceptible to fungal infections, such as basal rot or leaf spot. Good garden hygiene, proper spacing, and well-drained soil can help prevent these issues.

Harvesting

• Maturity: King Alfred Daffodils bloom in early to mid-spring, typically around March to April.
• Cutting: For cut flowers, harvest the blooms when the petals are fully open but before they start to fade. Cut the stems at an angle, ensuring they have water immediately.

Storage

• Short-Term: Store cut daffodils in a cool, dry place for a few days to prolong their freshness.
• Long-Term: Daffodil bulbs can be stored for the next planting season in a cool, dry area with good ventilation.

Culinary Uses

• Note: While daffodils are toxic if ingested, they are primarily grown for their ornamental value and not for culinary use.

Conclusion

King Alfred Daffodils are a timeless and reliable choice for spring gardens. With their large, trumpet-shaped blooms and sunny yellow color, they brighten any landscape and provide a much-needed burst of color after winter. Easy to grow and maintain, these daffodils are perfect for gardeners of all skill levels and are sure to bring beauty to any garden season after season. Whether planted in borders, meadows, or naturalized areas, King Alfred Daffodils are an excellent addition to your spring flower collection.