Is the Daffodil the Quintessential Spring Flower?

When you think of spring, what flower comes to mind? For many, it's the daffodil. And for me, they hold an especially dear place in my heart. As the third generation of my family involved in the bulb industry, spring flowers have always been a central part of my life—and daffodils were serious business! Growing up in Lincolnshire, I have vivid memories of clambering over stacks of these sunny flowers in my father’s warehouse, all grown locally in the district known as South Holland. Every March, the fields would burst into a sea of yellow—a sight that still brings a smile to my face.

Today, our daffodils are cultivated in the Netherlands, where they benefit from the innovative Dutch canal system. This system not only provides optimal moisture control but also allows for a greater diversity of varieties, ensuring you get the highest quality blooms.

Why Choose Daffodils?

Maybe daffodils aren't as popular as they once were. Some might even say they’re a bit basic, with their limited palette of yellow, white, red, and peachy pink hues. But that simplicity is part of their charm. Despite their straightforward six petals and trumpet, they bring an incredible diversity and intricacy to gardens that you’d hardly believe were all from the same family. With varieties ranging from classic trumpets to double blooms, daffodils add layers of texture and depth to any landscape.

Tulips vs. Daffodils: Which Should You Choose?

Tulips are certainly a beloved spring favourite, but here’s why daffodils are my first choice:

• Native Resilience:

  Daffodils are native to northern Europe, making them well-suited to our ever-changing climate. As seasons become more unpredictable, daffodils are a reliable choice that will return year after year.
• Pollinator-Friendly:

  Daffodils are a haven for pollinators. You’ll often spot a bumblebee nestled inside their trumpet, taking refuge from the elements. This makes them a fantastic choice for gardeners who want to support local wildlife.
• Perennial Longevity:

  Most daffodils are naturalizers, meaning they will spread and thrive year after year with minimal effort. Plant them once, and they’ll likely outlast you, gracing your garden with their cheerful blooms for generations.
• Versatile Planting Options:

  Whether you plant them in pots, window boxes, or vast fields, daffodils adapt beautifully to any environment. They flourish in sun and shade alike, adding brightness to a courtyard or creating a sweeping display across a meadow.

Create Your Own Daffodil Display

It’s true that you can find cut daffodils in supermarkets, and while it’s wonderful to see support for British flower growers, the selection is often limited. For a truly spectacular display, why not grow your own? You can mix different daffodil varieties to create a vibrant tapestry of colours and forms. Just remember: if you're planning to display daffodils as cut flowers, avoid mixing them with others in the same vase, as they can release sap that affects other blooms.

Ready to add these timeless beauties to your garden? Explore our Daffodil and Narcissus collection and bring a splash of spring into your outdoor space.

Perhaps I’m just a fan but I hope you enjoy these nesessary narcissus as much as I do!

Stephen Recommends

These are a few daffodils I'm excited by this year