Daffodil-Narcissus – Grand Soleil Dor – 5 bulbs p-pack

Narcissus ‘Grand Soleil d’Or’ is a fragrant, early-blooming tazetta daffodil known for its bright yellow petals and deep orange cups. It thrives in South Africa’s mild winters and is perfect for gardens, pots, and indoor forcing.

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1. Best Growing Conditions

✅ Climate:

• Well-suited to South Africa’s Mediterranean and temperate regions (Western Cape, Free State, Highveld).

• Tolerates mild winters and warm, dry summers.

• Does not require chilling, making it easier to grow than other daffodils.

✅ Soil Requirements:

• Prefers well-draining, fertile soil (loamy or sandy with compost added).

• pH level: 6.0–7.0 (neutral to slightly acidic).

• Avoid waterlogged clay soil to prevent bulb rot.

✅ Sunlight Needs:

• Full sun to partial shade (at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily).

• Grows well in borders, rock gardens, and containers.

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2. Planting ‘Grand Soleil d’Or’ Daffodils

✅ Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (March–May) for flowering in late winter to early spring (July–September).

• For indoor forcing, plant bulbs anytime for blooms within 4–6 weeks.

✅ Preparing the Bulbs:

• No need for pre-chilling.

• Soak bulbs in lukewarm water for 2 hours before planting to encourage root growth.

✅ Planting Depth & Spacing:

• Depth: 10–15 cm deep.

• Spacing: 8–10 cm apart.

• Water well after planting.

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3. Watering & Care

✅ Watering Schedule:

• Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Water once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and soil dryness.

• Reduce watering once leaves start yellowing after flowering.

✅ Fertilizing:

• At Planting: Use low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 3:1:5).

• During Growth: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks until flowering.

• Stop fertilizing after blooms fade.

✅ Mulching:

• Apply a thin layer of mulch (bark, straw, or compost) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

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4. Pest & Disease Management

✅ Common Pests:

• Aphids & Thrips – Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Snails & Slugs – Use organic snail bait or crushed eggshells around plants.

✅ Common Diseases:

• Narcissus Basal Rot – Prevent overwatering and ensure good drainage.

• Botrytis (Grey Mold) – Improve airflow and remove affected leaves.

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5. Flowering & Deadheading

✅ Bloom Time:

• July–September, depending on planting time.

• Flowers last 1–2 weeks.

✅ Deadheading:

• Remove faded flowers to direct energy back to the bulb.

• Do not cut leaves until they naturally yellow (6–8 weeks).

✅ Indoor Forcing:

• Can be grown in pebble-filled water containers.

• Place in cool, bright light for long-lasting blooms.

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6. Post-Flowering & Bulb Storage

✅ After Flowering Care:

• Allow foliage to die back naturally before removing.

• Reduce watering after flowering.

✅ Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

• In warmer areas (KwaZulu-Natal, Lowveld, coastal regions), lift bulbs and store them in a cool, dry place (10–15°C).

• In cooler areas, bulbs can remain in the ground.

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7. Companion Planting & Crop Rotation

✅ Good Companion Plants:

• Tulips, anemones, freesias, and muscari for a vibrant spring garden.

• Lavender and rosemary to deter pests and attract pollinators.

✅ Crop Rotation:

• Avoid planting daffodils in the same spot every year to prevent disease buildup.

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Conclusion

Narcissus ‘Grand Soleil d’Or’ is an easy-to-grow, fragrant daffodil that thrives in full sun, well-draining soil, and moderate watering. Perfect for South African gardens and pots, it will brighten up late winter and early spring with clusters of golden yellow and orange blooms! 🌞🌼