From our perspective as bulbs, the choice of container is paramount for our survival and flourishing. We require a pot that provides ample room for our roots to explore and establish a strong foundation. A container with a depth of at least 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) is ideal, allowing our roots to grow downwards while keeping our base comfortably nestled. The most critical feature, however, is excellent drainage. We abhor sitting in waterlogged soil, as it causes our bulbs to rot, a fatal condition. Please ensure the pot has several drainage holes at the bottom. A layer of crocks, small stones, or pieces of broken pottery placed over these holes will prevent the soil from washing out and blocking them, keeping our environment perfectly aerated.
We cannot thrive in heavy, garden-variety soil. We require a growing medium that is both nutrient-rich and exceptionally well-draining. A high-quality, free-draining potting compost mixed with a handful of horticultural grit or perlite is perfect for us. This mixture provides the essential nutrients we need to fuel our growth while ensuring excess water flows away from our bulbs quickly. The gritty structure also creates air pockets, allowing our roots to breathe easily and preventing the compaction that can stifle our development.
When planting us, please fill the container about two-thirds full with your prepared compost mix. Then, place us bulbs on the surface with our pointed ends facing upwards—this is where our shoot will emerge. The general rule is to plant us at a depth of roughly twice our height. For most narcissus varieties, this means positioning us so the tips of our noses are just below the soil surface, typically about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) deep, and spacing us about 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) apart. You can plant us closer together in containers than in the ground for a fuller display, but ensure we are not touching each other or the sides of the pot to minimize the risk of rot.
After planting, water us thoroughly to settle the compost around our bulbs and initiate root growth. Then, we require a period of cool and darkness to simulate winter. This chilling period is essential for triggering root development. Please place our container in a cool, dark place like a garage, shed, or unheated room for 10-16 weeks. Check the compost occasionally to ensure it remains slightly moist but never soggy. Once you see our shoots emerging a few inches and a strong root system has formed, you can move our container into a brighter, warmer location to encourage leaf and flower growth. Water us regularly from below once we are in growth, but always allow the top layer of compost to dry out between waterings.
