There are many types of Narcissus grown commercially, with hardy varieties often called “Daffodils” or “Jonquils,” and tender types referred to as “Paperwhite” or “Tazetta” Narcissus. Flower sizes vary by cultivar, ranging from 1 to 5 inches in diameter. Some cultivars produce multiple flowers per stem. The timing of flowering depends on both the specific variety and weather conditions, allowing for broad use in gardens and landscapes.
Before planting bulbs, it is important to conduct a soil test. Local soils tend to be acidic, which can cause calcium deficiency in narcissus plants. The recommended pH for most bulbs is between 5.8 and 6.5; soils below this range are too acidic and should be amended with lime according to test results. Well-drained soil is also necessary because poor drainage can lead to bulb rot. Planting depth depends on bulb size and type: small narcissus bulbs should be planted 3-4 inches deep, while larger bulbs like tulips require a depth of 4-5 inches.
Bulbs should be fertilized at planting time in late November using a complete fertilizer such as 10-10-10, and again when shoots emerge in spring. An application rate of four pounds per 100 square feet is suggested for both fall and spring maintenance. Bulb booster may also be used if available.
Narcissus are toxic to animals and humans, so they are rarely disturbed by wildlife, though squirrels may sometimes dig up newly planted beds. For gardeners dealing with voles or planning mixed bulb plantings, adding gravel or brick chips at planting can help deter pests.
Several factors can prevent Narcissus from flowering after several years in the garden: poor drainage, overly acidic soil, excessive fertilizer leading to root burn, competition from tree roots, low light levels, premature removal of foliage, or drought conditions.
Tulips require similar care but are often treated as annuals unless perennialized cultivars are chosen—such as Oxford, Parade, Beauty of Apeldoorn, Golden Parade, Monte Carlo, and Don Quichotte. Other spring-flowering options include snowdrops (Galanthus spp.), grape hyacinths (Muscari), or Scilla species. Bulbs purchased before November should be stored in a cool (55–65 degrees), dry place with good air circulation until planting.
For more information about growing bulbs locally or other gardening questions, residents can contact the Franklin County Cooperative Extension Office at 919-496-3344 or visit their website at franklin.ces.ncsu.edu.
In related education data for Franklin County school districts during the 2022–23 school year:
– Among seniors taking the science portion of the ACT exam, only about 15% were considered ready for college (source).
– For juniors taking the same test section that year, approximately 13% met college readiness standards (source).
– In reading proficiency on the ACT among seniors and juniors respectively: nearly 24% and just over 22% were deemed college-ready (source).
– Math readiness rates were lower: roughly 13% of seniors and almost 11% of juniors achieved scores indicating college preparedness (source).
