Summer Cheer Daffodil Bulbs

Size

Summer Cheer Daffodil Bulbs form clusters of fragrant, creamy ivory-white flowers. The petite, fully double blooms are packed closely together on thick stems, with a faint yellow cast near the center. Scientifically known as Narcissus Erlicheer, plants reach about 10 to 12 inches tall, with narrow gray-green foliage beneath the clustered flowers. Summer Cheer is a compact, fragrant daffodil that naturalizes over time when the foliage is allowed to mature fully after bloom. Depending on planting season, first-year flowering may occur later, while established bulbs typically settle into a spring bloom cycle.The blooms have enough substance to hold well in spring weather, and one cut stem carries enough florets to complete a small arrangement. The sturdy stems and short stature make it useful near the front of borders, along walkways, in cutting gardens, and in patio containers. It is also well suited to forcing indoors. Deer generally avoid narcissus because of the compounds naturally present in the bulbs and foliage.Summer Cheer Daffodil Bulbs CareGrow in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil, planting the bulbs about 6 inches deep with the pointed end facing upward. Loamy, sandy, or amended clay soils are suitable as long as water does not collect around the bulbs. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH works well.Keep the soil moderately moist during active growth when rainfall is limited. Reduce watering as the foliage begins to yellow and the bulbs move toward dormancy. Apply a balanced bulb fertilizer as shoots emerge in spring, or work a light application into the soil at planting.Remove spent flowers after bloom, but leave the foliage intact until it yellows naturally so the bulbs can store energy for the following season. Once the leaves have declined, they can be removed cleanly at the base. In colder climates, a light layer of mulch can help moderate winter soil temperatures.Summer Cheer Daffodil Bulbs SpacingSpace bulbs about 4 to 6 inches apart, planting in groups of five or more for a fuller display. For containers, use a pot at least 10 to 12 inches deep with drainage holes and a free-draining potting mix. For indoor forcing, chill planted bulbs for roughly 12 to 14 weeks before moving them into a bright, cool room to begin growth.Summer Cheer Daffodil Bulbs Companion PlantsDaylilies are a strong landscape companion because their emerging foliage helps cover declining daffodil leaves while taking over the display later in the season. Hostas work well in partly shaded beds, where their broad leaves expand after the narcissus flowers finish and mask the ripening foliage. In containers, pansies add earlier cool-season color around the taller daffodil stems and share a preference for cool spring conditions.