WHAT: If you’re trying to decide which varieties of bulbs to plant this fall for spring blooms, don’t overlook miniature daffodils, especially tete-a-tete narcissus.
WHY PLANT IT: Tete-a-tete, which stays under a foot tall, can add much-needed cheer and splashes of color to any late-winter landscape.
WHERE: Like most daffodils, tete-a-tete, grows best in full to part sun in well-drained, fertile soil with average moisture while in leaf.
HOW: Plant these bulbs in groups for a natural look along with hostas and deciduous ornamental grasses that will cover the fading foliage as it dies back in early June.
Though old flowers can be removed once they’ve faded, do not cut the foliage back until it yellows.
In summer, daffodils are dormant and relatively drought tolerant. When the autumn rains begin, they start growing roots for the next year’s blooms.
Tete-a-tete can be propagated by division once the leaves start to yellow, but keep in mind that large clumps put on the best show.
ACTUAL SIZE: Tete-a-tete’s 2 ½-inch golden-yellow flowers nod atop sturdy, 12-inch stems.
LEARN MORE: See www.greatplantpicks.org.
Source: Great Plant Picks
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
