Ice Follies Daffodil Bulb

Ice Follies Daffodil Bulbs bring large-cupped, bicolored blossoms to the spring landscape. The large corona is ruffled along its edges and fades from dark to light, from the throat to the rim. The petals appear almost translucent with foliage more lightly colored than many daffodil varieties. Large cup narcissus are generally tall, and are deer resistant. This one will be a welcome sight after the ice follies of winter! Let the daffodil foliage die back naturally, and they will come back year after year. Recommended spacing for fall planted Ice Follies Daffodil bulbs is 4 inches apart at a depth of 6 inches.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant Ice Follies daffodil bulbs in the fall, ideally 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost.
• - Dig holes about 6-8 inches deep and place the bulbs with the pointed end facing up.
• - Space the bulbs 6-12 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation.

Soil Preparation:

• - Daffodils prefer well-draining soil; sandy or loamy soil is ideal.
• - Amend heavy clay soils with compost or sand to enhance drainage.
• - The soil pH should ideally be between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.

Watering Specifics:

• - Water the bulbs thoroughly after planting to help them settle in.
• - During the growing season, keep the soil moderately moist, but avoid waterlogging.
• - Reduce watering once blooming has finished and the foliage begins to die back.

Fertilizer Type:

• - Use a slow-release fertilizer high in phosphorus (such as 5-10-10) at planting time to promote root growth.
• - Fertilize again in early spring when the new growth appears to encourage blooming.
• - Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.

Pruning and Care:

• - Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed formation and encourage bulb energy storage.
• - Allow the foliage to remain until it turns yellow and dies back naturally to aid bulb nourishment.
• - After blooming, consider mulching to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pest Management:

• - Daffodils are generally resistant to pests, but watch for aphids and snails.
• - Use insecticidal soap for aphid infestations.
• - Protect from bulb rot by ensuring well-draining soil and avoiding waterlogging.

Blooming Indicators:

• - Ice Follies typically bloom in mid to late spring, featuring pale yellow petals with a bright orange corona.
• - Blooms can last 4-6 weeks, depending on weather conditions.
• - These daffodils grow to a height of about 12-16 inches, making them suitable for borders or naturalized areas.

Light Requirements:

• - Daffodils thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
• - In warmer climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent overheating.

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
• - Ice Follies daffodils require a cold dormancy period, making them suitable for temperate climates.

Companion Plants for Ice Follies Daffodils:

• - Tulips: Their vibrant colors complement the daffodils beautifully.
• - Primroses: Early bloomers that add additional color in spring.
• - Hyacinths: Fragrant flowers that pair well in mixed beds with daffodils.
• - Bluebells: Create a lovely carpet of color when planted alongside daffodils.