Kiwi Sunset Daffodil Bulbs

The double flowers of Kiwi Sunset Daffodils are substantial, with sunshine-yellow outer petals and a densely ruffled center of deep orange-red and yellow. Blooms measure about 4 inches across and appear in mid spring. Strong stems reach 14 to 16 inches tall and keep the intricate flowers upright through typical spring weather, making this 5-bulb pack perfect for garden clusters and cutting. Developed in New Zealand by daffodil breeder Max Hamilton and registered in 1995, this Division 4 double daffodil has a distinctive form within the spring bulb garden. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8 and returns from established bulbs each spring, gradually forming larger clumps when left undisturbed. Plant it along path edges, among later-emerging perennials, or in groups throughout smaller beds where the compact stems will remain visible. Daffodils are generally avoided by deer, rabbits, squirrels, and voles because the plants contain toxic alkaloids.Kiwi Sunset Daffodil Bulbs CarePlant Kiwi Sunset Daffodil Bulbs in fall, preferably 4 to 6 weeks before the ground freezes, giving the bulbs time to begin rooting before winter; daffodils require a cold period for spring flowering. Position in full sun to partial shade, as plentiful spring light supports good flowering and bulb development. Well-drained loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of about 6.0 to 7.0 suits daffodils well. A 1- to 2-inch mulch layer can help buffer repeated freeze-thaw cycles in colder gardens.Set each bulb about 6 inches deep with the pointed end facing up and water thoroughly after planting. Maintain moderate moisture while leaves and flowers are actively growing in spring, about 1 inch of water per week from rain and irrigation. Drier conditions are preferred once the foliage yellows and summer dormancy begins. Apply a low-nitrogen or balanced bulb fertilizer according to label directions as growth appears in spring; avoid a high-nitrogen product that favors leaves over flower production. Snip away spent flowers after blooming, but keep the green leaves intact until they yellow and collapse naturally, typically at least six weeks later. This foliage period replenishes the bulb for the following year's growth. Established clumps that become crowded or flower less heavily can be lifted after the foliage dies back, divided, and replanted in fall. Because daffodils are toxic when eaten, keep stored bulbs away from dogs, cats, livestock, and children who may mistake them for edible bulbs.Kiwi Sunset Daffodil Bulbs SpacingSpace bulbs 4 to 6 inches apart in beds and borders, with groups of five or more creating a concentrated mid-spring display. For patio growing, use a container at least 10 inches deep with open drainage holes and place the bulbs about 2 to 3 inches apart. In zones 3-6, protect planted containers in an unheated garage, shed, or similarly cold sheltered space during winter so the bulbs receive chilling while the potting mix is less exposed to severe freezing.Kiwi Sunset Daffodil Bulbs Companion PlantsPlant hellebores nearby in partly shaded beds, as their earlier flowers and broad foliage extend seasonal interest around emerging daffodil stems. Snapdragons are well suited to spring containers with Kiwi Sunset because they appreciate cool weather and their root system occupies a different level of the pot than the deeper-set bulbs. In larger borders, weigela can provide a leafy shrub backdrop after the daffodil foliage begins to decline, helping the same planting area transition into late spring and summer.