Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit 1995
Narcissus Dutch Master is the quintessential daffodil, a modern improvement on the famous King Alfred variety. Since its introduction in the mid-1950s, this award-winning daffodil has been a favorite among gardeners for its classic form, vibrant color, and reliable performance. When planted in the fall, Dutch Master daffodil bulbs burst into bloom early in the spring, showcasing large flowers with bright yellow petals that surround a prominent, trumpet-shaped corona. These cheerful blooms, borne singly on long, sturdy stems that reach heights of 18 inches or more, are perfect for creating brilliant bunched bouquets that bring the sunshine indoors.
As a member of the Narcissus pseudonarcissus family, commonly known as daffodils, Dutch Master has an upright growth habit and a fast growth rate. This variety is known for its ability to multiply and naturalize easily, forming lush clumps of long, flat, strap-like leaves and showy blooms that return year after year. In ideal conditions, ample space, sunlight, water, and fertilizer, these daffodils can thrive for decades, creating a reliable source of beauty each spring.
Dutch Master daffodils are incredibly versatile and can be planted in groups or masses for maximum impact. They are
ideal for mixed beds, borders, and containers, where their vibrant yellow blooms can brighten any garden. These daffodils mix beautifully with ground covers and other spring-blooming bulbs, adding layers of texture and color to your garden. Additionally, they can be forced indoors, providing cheerful blooms during the winter months when outdoor flowers are scarce.
Narcissus Dutch Master is a bulbous perennial that is remarkably easy to grow and maintain, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels. These daffodils are cold-hardy to USDA Zone 3, ensuring reliable performance in a variety of climates. They thrive in areas with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers, but they also adapt well to a range of USDA Zones (5-9) where there is a discernible winter.
For the best growth, plant the bulbs in sunny to partly shady locations with rich, fertile, well-draining soil that has a neutral to acidic pH. When planting, space the bulbs about 8 inches apart and plant them 6 inches deep to ensure they have enough room to grow and multiply. During the growth period, water the daffodils regularly, but avoid waterlogged soil, as bulbs prefer well-drained conditions. To encourage robust flowering, feed the bulbs with a balanced fertilizer, like Espoma Organic® Bulb-tone® Bulb and Flower Food, as soon as growth begins in the spring. After the flowers have bloomed, allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this process is crucial for storing energy in the bulbs for the next season's growth.
Relatively pest-free and deer-resistant, Narcissus Dutch Master is a low-maintenance, high-impact addition to any garden. Create a stunning spring display or enjoy their classic beauty indoors with the timeless elegance of daffodils.
