This time of year we all love the pumpkins and sunflowers that come with fall and Thanksgiving decor, but what about bulbs? My name is Doris, and I am writing to share a little bit of my story with The Bulb Hunter. The Bulb Hunter and his love for bulbs started at a very young age when something that looked like a little brown rock turned into something beautiful. My hope is that I can have a similar experience.

If you’re anything like me you always thought that bulbs only bloomed in the spring, but that is far from the truth. You can have different bulbs blooming all year long! That means even for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. I have recently been learning about Narcissus papyraceous ‘Paperwhites’ and I’d love to share with you how you can plant them inside this holiday season!

Things I will cover in this post:

1.  A small history of paperwhites  
2. Why you should choose paperwhites
3. What you need to grow them indoors
4. Growing guide

A Small History

Paperwhites are native to the Mediterranean region and first came to the U.S. in the 19th century. They used to be used as a status of wealth among those who did ornamental gardening and enjoyed forcing bulbs to bloom indoors. Thankfully they are much more common and have become a big part of holiday gardening traditions. They became popular because of their ability to bloom indoors in the winter months. As well as only taking about 6-8 weeks to bloom, while most other bulbs take months to settle and bloom.

These bulbs have a strong, sweet, and musky fragrance that has attributed to their popularity as an indoor plant for the holiday season. So while the leaves might be falling and the gardens dying off you can still have beauty inside.

While the leaves might be falling and the gardens dying off, you can still have beauty inside.

Why Choose Paperwhites?

1. Easy to Grow: Paperwhites are among the simplest bulbs to grow indoors. They need minimal care, and you can enjoy blooms within 6 to 8 weeks of planting.
2. Fragrant Blooms: Their scent is distinct—strong and musky. While the fragrance is adored by many, be aware that it can be quite potent, especially in small spaces.
3. Winter Cheer: With their clean, white flowers, paperwhites bring a natural brightness to a season when many gardens lie dormant.
4. Flexible Growing Options: These bulbs can be grown in water, or soil, allowing for a variety of decorative options.

How to Grow Paperwhites

Supplies Needed

• Paperwhite bulbs (available on our website: Paperwhites)
• Containers (shallow glass vases, bowls, or ceramic pots work well)
• Growing medium:
  • For Water Growing: Pebbles, stones, or marbles
  • For Soil Growing: Lightweight potting soil

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose a Container
   The container you choose doesn’t need drainage if you’re growing in water. For soil planting, however, a container with drainage holes is ideal to prevent waterlogging.
2. Planting in Water
   • Add a layer of pebbles, stones, or marbles about 1-2 inches deep in your container.
   • Nestle the bulbs into the pebbles, pointed end up, so that they are secure and won’t tip over as they grow. Still leaving the top half of the bulb above the planting medium.
   • Add water to the container, stopping just below the base of the bulbs. You want the water to touch the bottom of the bulbs but not submerge them fully.
3. Planting in Soil
   • Fill your container with a few inches of potting soil, place the bulbs closely together on the soil surface, and then add more soil around them to cover the bottom half of each bulb.
   • Water gently to settle the soil around the bulbs.
4. Location and Light
   • Place the container in a bright, indirect light location. A sunny windowsill is ideal, though they can also handle lower light conditions if necessary. Making sure the get at least 6 hours of light a day.
   • Once the bulbs start to sprout, you may need to rotate the container periodically to prevent the stems from leaning too far toward the light source.
5. Watering
   • For water-planted paperwhites, check the water level every few days to ensure it touches the bulb base.
   • For soil-grown paperwhites, keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy.

Now you can sit back, relax and enjoy watching your paperwhites grow! I sure have been enjoying watching mine!

After Blooming

Unfortunately, paperwhites grown indoors won’t reliably rebloom. Once the flowers fade, you can compost the bulbs or discard them. If you live in a warm, mild climate, you may try planting the used bulbs outdoors, but be patient because they may not bloom again right away.

I hope you enjoy your paperwhites all holiday season long, cause I know I will be!

Make sure you sign up for Southern Bulb Co. newsletter for weekly deals on bulbs like these! www.southernbulbs.com

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Everything you need to know about fertilizing flower bulbs!

It’s a question I get as The Bulb Hunter (or just as Chris the friend at any old get together): should I fertilize my bulbs? The quick is answer is “yes, they love fertilizer” but you don’t have to.  However, all plants love a little tender loving care, so if you want to give them a hand up in your garden life, here is a quick guide.  As always, we love to talk to customers at our sister site, www.southernbulbs.com or call us at 888-285-2486 and you can talk to a real life gardener in Texas.

All plants love a little tender loving care.

In this article, we’ll address:

1. When to Fertilize your Flower Bulbs

2. Seasonal Considerations

3. Tips for Successful Bulb Fertilization

When to Fertilize Your Flower Bulbs: A Seasonal Guide

Quick Answer: right before they send up foliage or at the beginning of their growth cycle for the year.

Flower bulbs rewarding plants to grow in your garden, offering vibrant colors and striking blooms with relatively little maintenance. Whether you’re planting spring-blooming favorites like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, or summer stars like rain lilies, Philippine lilies and crinum, knowing when and how to fertilize your bulbs can help them thrive year after year. Here’s a fertilizing guide to ensure your bulbs get the nutrients they need at the right time.

Why Fertilize Bulbs?

Of course, because we want bigger blooms, more of them, and healthier perennial clumps that come back every year!

Bulbs store energy underground to produce next season’s flowers, but this energy depletes over time. Proper fertilization replenishes the soil with essential nutrients like phosphorus and potassium, which encourage healthy root growth and abundant blooms.

Also, for forcing bulbs like paperwhites and tulips, a shot of fertilizer helps that one time bloom be even more spectacular!

Timing: When to Fertilize

1. At Planting Time The most crucial time to fertilize bulbs is when you first plant them or right before they start their growth of foliage for the year. Fall is the typical planting season for spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, snowflakes, and alliums. Incorporating a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the planting hole gives the bulbs an initial boost to support root development. This is especially important for Southern gardens where long falls help roots establish before winter sets in. Fall is also when our famous red spider lilies start blooming – this bloom is a reminder to fertilize your red spider lilies and other fall planted bulbs before they start their winter season of growth!
   • Recommended Fertilizer: A bulb-specific fertilizer or one that’s high in phosphorus, like a 5-10-5 (N-P-K) blend, encourages root growth.

1. How to Apply: Mix the fertilizer into the soil at the bottom of the planting hole, then place the bulb on top. Cover with soil as usual. For how to plant flower bulbs, check out our social media page.
2. While Growing: Bulbs can use a light “top-dressing” of fertilizer while they are growing early in the season.  Bulbs are monocots, like grass, and respond well to a light dose of Nitrogen. It helps their leaves stay green and healthy.  Don’t give them too much Nitrogen! You’ll have all foliage and no bulb.
   • Recommended Fertilizer: Use a light dose of Nitrogen (0-0-10 or something similar).
   • How to Apply: Scatter the fertilizer around the bulb area (not directly on the bulb). Lightly scratch it into the soil and water thoroughly to help the nutrients reach the roots.

Note: For Southern gardeners, you may still see some active growth after blooming. If your bulbs have foliage, this is a sign that fertilization can still be effective.

Seasonal Considerations for Different Bulbs

• Spring-Blooming Bulbs: These bulbs (like tulips, daffodils, and snowflakes) should be fertilized at planting time (fall).
• Summer-Blooming Bulbs: Bulbs like rain lilies, traditional lilies, and crinum should be fertilized in early spring as they emerge, and again during mid-to-late summer.
• Southern Gardening Note: Bulbs like Crinum bulbispermum ‘Sacramento’ and amaryllis, which are perennial in warmer climates, can benefit from additional light feedings during their active growing seasons.

Tips for Successful Bulb Fertilization

• Avoid High-Nitrogen Fertilizers: Too much nitrogen can encourage excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.
• Do Not Over-Fertilize: Over-fertilization can burn bulbs or result in weak growth. Stick to recommended amounts on the fertilizer packaging.
• Organic Options: Organic fertilizers like bone meal or compost can be slower to release nutrients but are gentle and long-lasting. They also help improve soil structure.
• Mulch: After fertilizing, consider adding a layer of mulch. It helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and slowly breaks down to provide additional nutrients.

Conclusion

Properly fertilizing your bulbs is key to enjoying beautiful, long-lasting blooms in your garden. By following this seasonal guide and giving your bulbs a boost when they need it most—at planting, after blooming, and during their growing season—you’ll set the stage for healthier plants and more vibrant flowers year after year.

Happy gardening!

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The Hippeastrum vittatum provide an early large-bloom experience to your garden. No two blooms are exactly alike. Plant extra to use some as cut flowers for your table.

The Hippeastrum vittatum is a prized specimen in the world of gardening and botany. Originating from South America, it is one of the oldest known varieties of Hippeastrum. Characterized by its striking white flowers with bold red stripes, it presents a captivating display when in bloom.

This bulb works great when planted in pots. Plant each bulb in its own small pot to have in several areas around a patio. You can use it outdoors or bring it indoors when entertaining.

As an heirloom bulb, it has been passed down through generations of gardeners, often treasured for its historical significance and enduring beauty. Unlike many modern hybrid varieties, the Hippeastrum vittatum retains a charm that is both rustic and elegant, embodying a simpler era of gardening. Its resilience and ease of cultivation make it a favored choice among enthusiasts, thriving with minimal care. Blooming primarily in the late winter or early spring, it brings a burst of color to gardens when most plants are dormant. This bulb symbolizes not just the beauty of nature, but also the rich heritage and traditions of horticulture, making it a cherished plant for collectors and casual gardeners alike.

The Hippeastrum vittatum look great when planted around a tree or mailbox or clumped together as a garden centerpiece. The foliage is beautiful all summer so it can easily be used as a backdrop, hedge, or border depending on your other flowers.

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We had a customer ask about what to plant in Lake County, Florida, so we decided to make a blog post about it. The lush landscapes of Lake Country, Florida’s zone 9b create the perfect environment for growing an array of stunning flower bulbs. For gardeners in this region, The Southern Bulb Company offers a treasure trove of options that not only thrive in our weather but also add a vibrant splash of color to any garden.

The Crinum ‘Ellen Bosanquet’ is a striking addition to any garden.

Ideal Setting for Unique Bulbs

Ideal Climate for Growth: Bulbs like tuberose, Aztec lilies, Gloriosa lilies, Philippine lilies, red and yellow spider lilies, Oxblood lilies, amaryllis, Tropical Giants, and others thrive in zone 9 and 10. These bulbs and plants need warmer temperatures and are well-suited to the mild winters and hot summers characteristic of this zone.

Red and yellow spider lilies burst open with the fall hurricane season.

Red and yellow spider lilies burst open with the fall hurricane season.

Longer Blooming Period: Due to the extended warm season in Zone 9b, these plants can have a longer blooming period. Gardeners enjoy their beautiful flowers for a more extended time compared to cooler zones.

Low Maintenance Needs: Many bulbs that work best in zone 9b are known for being low maintenance. Once established, they require minimal care, making them ideal for busy gardeners or those looking for plants that don’t need constant attention.

Rich Fragrance and Stunning Flowers: Tuberose is renowned for its intense, sweet fragrance and elegant white flowers. Amaryllis impresses with its large, trumpet-shaped blooms in various colors. These characteristics make them both a sensory addition to any garden.

Tuberose blooms fill your garden or house with their sweet fragrance.

Perennial Growth: In Zone 9b, these bulbs can often be left in the ground year-round. Perennials in this climate will come back each year, reducing the need for annual replanting.

Versatility in Landscaping: Many of the bulbs that work great in Zone 9b can be used in borders, beds, or even containers.

Year-Round Interest: Create a garden that provides visual interest throughout the year. Even when not in bloom, many bulbs have attractive foliage that adds texture and greenery to your garden.

The ‘Tropical Giant’ has great long-lasting foliage all summer.

Crinums and Rain Lilies

In the warmth and humidity of Florida’s Lake Country, crinums and rain lilies thrive. These bulbs are not only adapted to our climate but also bring exceptional beauty to any garden. Crinums, with their large, lily-like blooms, offer a range of colors from white to various shades of pink and even striped varieties. They are robust, drought-resistant, and can handle Florida’s full sun without a hitch. Crinums take their time but are worth the wait, offering large, fragrant flowers that can last for weeks.

Rain lilies, on the other hand, are more demure but no less spectacular. As their name suggests, these delightful bulbs burst into bloom shortly after rainfall, presenting a carpet of white, pink, or yellow flowers that can turn an ordinary garden into a magical landscape. Rain lilies might surprise you with their sudden post-rain appearances, adding a whimsical charm to your garden.

Growing flower bulbs in Zone 9b’s Lake Country can be a delightful experience. With the right care, bulbs from The Southern Bulb Company can transform your garden into a stunning oasis, brimming with color and life. The Southern Bulb Company specializes in bulbs that are not just beautiful but also well-suited to the Southern climate, making them ideal for Florida gardeners. Happy gardening!

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In the world of gardening and horticulture, there are individuals who go to extraordinary lengths to preserve the beauty of nature’s most delicate creations. One such individual is the bulb hunter, a unique breed of plant enthusiasts who embark on daring expeditions in search of rare and exquisite bulbous plants. Their passion for bulbs not only contributes to the preservation of biodiversity but also brings joy to gardens and landscapes worldwide.

Bulb hunters go to extraordinary lengths to preserve the beauty of nature’s most delicate creations.

Who are the Bulb Hunters?

Bulb hunters are adventurers, botanists, and plant lovers rolled into one. They dedicate their lives to tracking down elusive bulbous treasures in the wild, often in far-flung corners of the world or simply venturing into the forgotten homes and neighborhoods in our own city.  Chris Wiesinger of the Southern Bulb Company made it his horticulture ambition to find and appreciate beautiful flower bulbs that are in our own neighborhoods. The correct location for The Bulb Hunter blog is www.bulbhunter.com.

Preserving Biodiversity

The work of bulb hunters goes beyond their own collections. By highlighting the joy and beauty of these flower bulbs, every day home owners are encouraged to use these bulbs in their own gardens. These bulbs, when cultivated and shared with fellow gardeners and botanical institutions, contribute to the protection and enjoyment of species that might otherwise be neglected. Consequently, flower lovers have taken up the task of collecting and sharing these flower bulbs.

The Garden’s Delight

For gardeners, bulb hunters are a source of inspiration and a gateway to unique and exquisite plants. Many of the bulbs they collect are not suitable for the commercial market (for example, some of these are small bulbs that do not ship very well overseas and dry out quickly), making them coveted treasures for those who crave something extraordinary in their gardens. These plants can add a touch of magic to any landscape, with their vibrant colors and delicate forms.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate the dedication and passion of bulb hunters, it’s important to remember that we can all contribute to the preservation of plant biodiversity. It starts with putting away distractions (whether material distractions like phones or mental distractions) and going outside to enjoy nature.

In conclusion, bulb hunters are modern-day adventurers with a noble mission – to preserve the beauty of nature and share it with the world. Their journeys into the wilds, in search of rare bulbs, enrich our gardens and help protect the planet’s precious biodiversity. So, the next time you admire a stunning display of flowers in your garden, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the bulb hunters and how these bulbs can enrich your life.  Find bulbs for purchase at The Southern Bulb Company.

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Termed “Snowflakes” by the gardening public, the Leucojum aestivum is by far one the most adaptable bulbs ever offered in the Southern US. This is the bulb that we suggest people try when they aren’t sure if they can grow perennial bulbs. During a season when people only consider daffodils to be early spring bloomers, this unusual bloom will steal your heart and captivate your attention. This diminutive bloom was once prized and plentiful in old southern gardens.

This unusual bloom will steal your heart and captivate your attention.

Scott Ogden in his book Garden Bulbs for the South says this bulb “positively thrives in the South, and you could hardly ask for a more appealing spring flower.” Most spring-blooming bulbs are good only down to zone 8 or good for zones 8-10. The Leucojum aestivum, however, works great in zones 6-10! This fanciful bloom may look delicate, but this bulb is hardy, reliable, and vigorous.

Names

Bulbs often have similar names. The buyer often assumes that the bulbs are the same but just from different companies. Over the years, the Galanthus spp. “Snowdrops” is assumed to be the same as the heirloom Leucojum aestivum “Snowflakes”. Though they sound like they should be the same bulb, and the blooms do look similar, it doesn’t take long in the warmer areas of the south to realize that they aren’t the same. The Snowdrops just can’t endure over the years the hot dry summers of the south, whereas the heirloom “Snowflakes” thrive and exceed expectations.

Characteristics

• Versatility: The versatility of the “Snowflakes” is probably what makes it stand out the most among all bulbs. Most bulbs need certain light or soil conditions. Those conditions aren’t flexible. That isn’t the case with the “Snowflakes” bulbs. “Snowflakes” work well in zones 6-10 in all kinds of soil from clay to moist sand and edges of ponds to drought-ridden soil. They can be planted in any type of lighting from full shade to full sun. If you have a spot that is unsuitable for most other early spring-blooming bulbs, try “Snowflakes”.

• Blooms: These petite blooms look like bells and are only about the size of a dime. Each bloom has six little petals that each have a tiny green spot on the tip. If you plant the bulbs in groups of 4-6 then the foliage seems to “clump up” and the blooms seem to float on a sea of green. The height of these blooms is only about 12 inches. On top of their unique beauty, they have a lightly sweet fragrance for you to enjoy.

• Tough Bulb: I’m not sure that I can emphasize enough just what a tough bulb this is. This bulb is a great perennial in the south and will naturalize over time. It is one of the easiest to grow and can thrive almost anywhere you plant it. It produces unique blooms that add to any setting. It does well in ditches or a more formal garden. It can be planted en masse for a dramatic display or in between your already-established spring bloomers for interest and diversity.

Animals: The pollinators truly enjoy this bloom and make good use of it in early March. If you want a bulb that is resistant to deer and other critters, this is a great one for you. Our Snowflakes have even resisted the munching of goats, so we feel fairly comfortable recommending them to you as an animal-resistant bulb.

A Fun Story

Once, when speaking to a garden club in Monroe, a long time member of the club decided that she would like to show me her little patch of snowflakes. I often have such an invitation and see nice little clumps here and there in a garden setting. A surprise was in store for me when we turned onto her property and a field of white met our eyes!

Conclusion

From the northern parts of the Southern US to Gulf Coast towns like Galveston, this is one of the toughest bulbs in our gardening inventory. It handles part time shade better than the Narcissus and is a reliable bloomer every year. We hope you give it a try! Available at www.southernbulbs.com

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Introduction to Narcissus incomparabilis

The “Incomparable” daffodil, known scientifically as Narcissus incomparabilis, is an elegant and unparalleled in beauty. The heirloom Narcissus “Incomparable” has a subtle and refined petal/trumpet combination and a reliability as a perennial that we love. This is the single version of the ‘Butter and Eggs’ – also called ‘Orange Phoenix’ or even ‘Bacon and Eggs.’ Sometimes the overly large trumpets of some daffodils can be somewhat out of place in the garden.

N. incomparabilis is never out of place in the garden.  It is the perfect blend of a reliable perennial heirloom Narcissus and a romantic trumpet shape of a daffodil.  As seen in the pictures on this post,  they are often found under deciduous trees in clumps on sites that were once old house garden sites.

The perfect blend of a reliable perennial heirloom Narcissus and the romantic trumpet shape of a daffodil.

Characteristics of Narcissus incomparabilis

• Bloom: N. incomparabilis is never out of place in the garden. This bloom combines the traditional trumpet characteristics of a daffodil with the more whimsical and romantic beauty of an unconventional flower. The petals on this daffodil seem to each float by themselves while tied together by the center trumpet. This gives the bloom an almost playful feel to it like children’s excitement on the first warm day of spring. Rare might be a strong word, but we don’t see it as often as others and are always excited when we do.
• Bloom Time: The “Incomparable” daffodil is in full bloom this week, which is the first week of March. Since this bulb works best in zones 6-8, the beginning of March is usually late enough to protect it from the winter weather though it has stood the test of time to endure whatever nature brings. You can count on a longer bloom time with this bulb than many simply because it blooms during the temperate lull between a cold winter and the sometimes harsh spring rains. You can cut the blooms and bring them in for a lovely centerpiece as well.

• Easy to Grow: Like other heirloom Narcissus bulbs the “Incomparable” daffodil is easy to grow. The best thing that you can do is dig a hole and put the bulb in promptly so that it doesn’t have time to dry out. With heirloom bulbs, you really don’t have to use fertilizer or anything else. These hearty Texas bulbs endure heat, drought, and storm. The “Incomparable” will spread once established.
• Pest Resistance but Pollinator Receptive: The “Incomparable” bulb is perfectly suited for pollinators holding  pollen deep within the trumpet for protection.

Conclusion for the “Incomparable” Daffodil

We’ve had some disappointed customers in San Antonio and Houston who would love to try this bulb, but if you are in Zones 6-8, you should definitely give this daffodil a try. It is worthy of cottage gardens, formal gardens, forgotten gardens, and your garden! We often have them for sale at www.southernbulbs.com.

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Introduction

Narcissus x odorus ‘Campernelle’ are often known as the giant jonquils. When people think of daffodils, they most often think of a trumpet-shaped daffodil—that traditional trumpet center surrounded by pointy petals. The campernelle is like a smaller version of the larger daffodils, but it is an amazing heirloom perennial that returns every year! It is often dubbed the “Giant Jonquil” since it is similar in bloom time, appearance, and reliability, but it is about twice the size of a smaller jonquil.

The campernelle is known for the wonderful fragrance and golden blooms. Clusters of small rich colored dark yellow trumpets top the foliage, and look like a vein of gold going through the landscape. They bloom in late February, and add such flavor, fun, and beauty, that they truly are worth their weight in gold. As I travel the back country roads across the nation, one of my favorite scenes is the broken-down gate, barbed wire fence, falling over structure, and thousands of golden blooms of campernelles in the winter thriving despite the neglect.

They look like a vein of gold going through the landscape.

More information on the campernelle can be found at our website: www.southernbulbs.com.

• What makes the ‘Campernelle’ so special?
• Are campernelles heirloom daffodil bulbs?
• Where are campernelle narcissus originally from?
• What zone do these daffodils grow in? Will they do well in zone 9?

What makes the Narcissus ‘Campernelle’ so special?

You may be wondering why you should buy campernelle bulbs especially if you just bought other yellow-blooming Narcissus bulbs. Of course, we could start by saying that the campernelles probably bloom at a slightly different time than other flowers in your garden and so they overlap with some and precede others. Or we could say that they are a truly unique bulb and bloom that you need in your garden. Or we could say that Campernelles provide vivid bold colors in late February and are a stark contrast against the gray colors of winter and even its foliage adds interest to your garden. All of the above is true. But let us tell you a few things that make the campernelle a must-have bulb.

• Bloom Time and Fragrance: The campernelle bloom is one of the earliest blooming trumpet-shaped daffodils out there. They also have a comparatively long bloom time that begins in mid-late February or early March. The campernelle makes itself known by its enjoyable scent. If you check out the product page where we offer campernelles for sale at www.southernbulbs.com and scroll to the bottom, you will see the difference in the size of the blooms between the campernelle and jonquil. The campernelle has a light sweet aroma that makes you want to stay outside with it or cut it and bring it indoors.

Observe the picture above. The large bloom on the left is the campernelle while the two smaller blooms to the right are from the jonquil flower. ‘Campernelle’ bulbs are hybrids and receive their fragrance from the Jonquil and the large blooms from its other parent, the Lent lily (Narcissus x pseudonarcissus). Sharing characteristics from both parents, the large foliage is not exactly cylindrical and not all the way flat, but a combination somewhere between the two. The dark green foliage is attractive along with the large golden blooms that show up around mid-February or the beginning of March.

• Easy to Grow: The campernelle is extremely low maintenance. It is a “mule” because it is a cross between the Jonquil and Lent lily, but it can also be called that because of its durability and longevity. It’s popular for its ability to adapt and bloom every year if you simply make sure that they get enough sun. The campernelle easily naturalize and provide you with late-winter trumpets.

• Pest Resistance but Pollinator Receptive: I’ve seen fields of deer, donkeys, horses, and cows leave them alone. Even the gophers at the farm just ignore the campernelle. However, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are attracted to the blooms and make good use of the sweet-smelling flowers.

Are campernelles heirloom daffodil bulbs?

These would most likely be considered heirloom flower bulbs since they are so old, but really they are a naturally occurring hybrid.

A flower bulb that is consider an heirloom has been around for generations. Heirloom bulbs are often originally from a stock of bulbs that have been saved over many years and may be difficult or impossible to find commercially, but are passed down among gardeners or specialty collectors. Many newer bulbs focus on bigger, better, and different but can sacrifice fragrance, adaptability to growing locations, ease of care, etc. When choosing between heirloom bulbs and modern bulbs, like larger trumpet daffodils, it is not a “either/or” but rather a “yes/and” conversation—what we mean is, use and enjoy them both!

Where are campernelle Narcissus originally from and where do we find them?

Campernelles are originally from southern Spain and Portugal, where they are a naturally occurring hybrid between jonquils (Narcissus jonquilla) and Lent Lilies (Narcissus psuedonarcissus).

Often, we find campernelles growing in old house gardens, where the home is no longer evident except for some piles of wood and larger trees. You’ll find these flowers gracing this old home site where they have lived for over 100 years, blooming reliably each year with little to no care.  You can also see them gracing roadsides where an old home site was undoubtedly removed to make room for a new road.

What zone do these daffodils grow in? Will they grow in zone 9?

Daffodil zone or hardiness zones refer to a map put out by the USDA which can be quickly searched for and found online The hardiness zone map is used to give general reference to the ability of plants, such as the campernelle, to successfully grow in that region. Often times it is used to see the cold tolerance of a plant, to have a general idea of what cold temperatures will freeze a plant to death. In warmer climates, it can be used to figure out what plants can survive in hot temperatures.

For example, someone might want to know, will daffodils grow in Florida? The answer is yes. Campernelles will actually do well in areas of North Florida, but will they do well in Miami? Probably not. So, you can use the zone map to help you figure this out.

I have seen campernelles bloom in zone 9A, but I have not seem them thrive in Zone 9b or warmer. They seem to do best in Zones 7 and 8 and these daffodils will bloom around the end of February and into March. Even in Zone 9, these are full sun daffodils, but that is full winter sun. Other summer perennials and trees can provide shade during hot Zone 9 summer months, and you might consider planting them about an inch deeper than normal if they will receive no shade in the summer dormancy months.

Conclusion

Campernelles are like a giant jonquil that are highly adapted heirloom perennial daffodils in the genus Narcissus. They are a must have in every garden to brighten up your February and bring fragrance to your life. Planting a campernelle is planting a story that passes down culture and beauty to your children and future generations!

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Those who are fortunate enough to live where this little Narcissus can grow know what a true gem it is.

More information on the jonquil can be found at our website: www.southernbulbs.com.

• How do you pronounce “jonquil”?
• What makes the ‘Jonquil’ so special?
• Where should I plant the jonquil bulbs?
• How big are jonquil bulbs?
• What makes an heirloom flower bulb special?

How do you pronounce “jonquil”?

How to pronounce the word jonquil is shown very artfully by one of our very own artist, Anna, in the following visual.

What makes the Narcissus ‘Jonquil’ so special?

If you watch the video above, you will see just a few of the reasons why we love the Narcissus “jonquil”. If we could pick just three words to describe the jonquil, they would be fragrance, beauty, and versatility. As a bonus, jonquils are also great pollinators for honey bees during warm February days. Here are just a few of the things that make the Narcissus “jonquil” so special:

• Fragrance: The jonquil scent is enjoyed by almost everyone. It has a pure, sweet aroma that reminds some of bubblegum or honey. The oil from the jonquil flower is used in perfume, candles, soaps, and even for aromatherapy.

• Beauty: The jonquils have deep golden blooms that usually appear in late February. During late winter, they provide the first true color to remind us that the seasons are changing once again. Their petite stature and dainty blooms brighten the sparse surrounding landscape and bring a sense of comfort and happiness.

• Versatility: Jonquil flowers are extremely popular because of their many different uses. We love letting the naturalizing jonquils stay in the garden wherever they pop up. They are very hardy and will naturalize an area easily. They can be used in formal gardens or left to look more natural in clumps. The jonquil bulbs are so easy to care for. You simply plant the bulbs where they will receive at least 6+ hours of winter sun and wait to enjoy the blooms next February. Other ways to use your bulbs are to plant them in masses (en masse) for a bold effect or plant them here and there among other Narcissus and tulips for a more subtle effect. Well-known for their fragrance and beauty, jonquils make excellent cut flowers and are often used in bouquets.

• Pollinators: Bees and butterflies love the jonquil flowers. The golden yellow color and sweet bubblegum scent attract the bees letting them know that there is nectar available. Plus, the jonquils are among the first to bloom when so many other food sources are still dormant.

Where should I plant the jonquil bulbs?

Because they are so small, these bulbs can be used in a variety of locations. They work best planted in the ground where they can naturalize and require little to no special attention. You can plant all the bulbs near each other to create a mass planting for a stunning late-winter display of color, or you can spread them among other Narcissus for little pops of color all over. You can plant them in containers as filler for dramatic color on a small scale. These work really well along borders and walkways or even within a rock garden. Be sure to plant some in a location where you can bring blooms indoors after you cut them.

How big are jonquil bulbs?

Jonquil bulbs are among the smallest of the bulbs that we sell. Don’t let their size fool you though. They are hardy and well-prepared for the late winter weather that they often encounter. Their ability to perennialize and naturalize an area prove that they can be counted on.

What makes an heirloom flower bulb special?

A flower bulb that is consider an heirloom has been around for generations. Heirloom bulbs are often originally from a stock of bulbs that have been saved over many years and may be difficult or impossible to find commercially, but are passed down among gardeners or specialty collectors. Many newer bulbs focus on bigger, better, and different but can sacrifice fragrance, adaptability to growing locations, ease of care, etc. When choosing between heirloom bulbs and modern bulbs, like larger trumpet daffodils, it is not a “either/or” but rather a “yes/and” conversation—what we mean is, use and enjoy them both!

We hope you try these beautiful flower bulbs in your garden. Call us today at 888-285-2486 (888-Bulb Hunt) or email us at info@southernbulbs.com or check out the product page where you can by Narcissus jonquilla “jonquil” flower bulbs at https://www.southernbulbs.com/narcissus-x-jonquilla-jonquil-heirloom/!

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There are a few bulbs that just stand out from the rest.

Information on the Narcissus ‘Grand Primo’

Be sure to visit our website to get more information about the Narcissus ‘Grand Primo’ here Heirloom ‘Grand Primo’.

• What makes the Narcissus ‘Grand Primo’ special?
• How many blooms will I get from each bulb?
• When will it bloom?
• How is a Narcissus tazetta different from just a Narcissus?
• What else should I plant with my Grand Primo bulbs?

What makes the Narcissus ‘Grand Primo’ so special?

The Narcissus tazetta ‘Grand Primo’ is a superstar from the Gulf Coast to the northern parts of the South, to California, and other warm climates. Vigorous, reliable, perennial all come to mind. Landscapers enjoy the bulb for its massive color impact, and home gardeners enjoy it for the length of bloom time. This bulb has the ability to thrive almost anywhere in the South, and it seldom needs to be divided (only if you want to share bulbs with others or move them around). Its landscape qualities and overall ease of use for home gardeners have made it a favorite.

The Grand Primo has a light sweet scent that will make you want to plant it close to the house. Neighbors may think that you have different bulbs planted because as the blooms age they actually change color. Newly opened blooms will have cream color petals with light yellow cups, but those colors fade as the flower ages, and many people often mistake the Grand Primo for a late-flowering paperwhite.

The Grand Primo has several imposters claiming to be “just like it.” The problems are that one is shorter, another has different colors, one’s scent is non existent, another flowers too early, and others don’t do well across such a wide range in the Southern United States (think Narcissus tazetta “Avalanche”). These other bulbs are still good, but not the amazing, reliably blooming, well adapted “Grand Primo.”

How many blooms will I get from each bulb?

Once established each bulb will send up two or three flower stalks and then each stalk will produce a plethora of smaller flowers. Many Narcissus bulbs will produce a single stem with a single bloom, but that is not the case with the Grand Primo, as the larger bulbs send up these stalks in succession. This succession adds to the length of time the flower is in bloom. It also makes the area look “fuller” sooner. The older and more-established the bulb, generally the more flowers it will produce. It does not take the Grand Primo long to multiply and naturalize an area. This means more blooms every spring.

When will it bloom?

The Grand Primo blooms in early spring. It usually resists blooming until February or early March in warmer growing zones. This bloom time helps protect it against the danger of the earlier freezes of December and January. In colder growing zones, it may not bloom until late March; however, a warm winter may make it bloom a little earlier. There is no need to worry though if it does bloom early and then there is a frost – it will generally recover and still bloom. If it experiences a severe freeze, just allow the foliage to go ahead and die back naturally taking in all the nutrients it can from the sun. The bulb is perfectly fine in the ground.

If you have had perennial bulbs, you have probably noticed that no two years are exactly the same as to when the bulbs bloom. The Grand Primo should normally bloom in late February or early March. This year, 2022, was a warm early winter in east Texas so our Grand Primo bulbs actually started blooming in January. Let’s take a minute and discuss some of the factors that affect when a perennial bulb will bloom.

1. Light—This is probably the single biggest factor as to when and if a bulb will bloom. The light gives the bulbs nourishment and energy. Bulbs need a lot of energy to produce their blooms. We tell you whether a bulb needs winter sun, like the Narcissus and red spider lilies, or summer sun, like the crinum and rain lilies. If the bulbs don’t get enough sun, they might produce foliage but no bloom.
2. Temperature—Some bulbs, especially tulips, need certain temperatures in order to bloom. The Southern Bulb Company focuses on perennial bulbs that do well in hot, humid climates. Even though the temperatures may be uncomfortable for us, our bulbs do well being planted any time of year they are available except in a hard freeze.
3. Water—Sufficient water is necessary not only for growth but also for blooming. Let’s use the red spider lily as an example. If there is a dry summer and then not enough rain in August/September, the spider lilies may barely bloom or not at all. In that case watch for the winter foliage. We have some at the office that didn’t bloom at all during the fall of 2022 due to the lack of rain, but their foliage in December showed us that not only were they healthy but had multiplied from the year before. Grand Primo generally DO NOT need supplemental water because they grow in the winter when there is more rain, and they days are shorter so the soil stays moist. This might seem obvious, but avoid areas of too much water, like swampy areas that are essentially puddles all winter long.
4. Soil—The soil can affect the blooms. Most of our bulbs do well in any kind of soil. If it has too much clay, we recommend that you amend it for better drainage. Some bulbs do best in clay though like the Texas tulip. The Grand Primo bulb not only does well but thrives in all kinds of soil from sandy to clay.
5. Age and Genetics—Some bulbs take longer to mature before they bloom. It takes the yellow spider lily longer to get established than the red spider lily. That said, bulbs are like children from the same family…each one matures in their own time even though they come from the same place. For example, you may plant 10 red spider lily bulbs the same year, but only 3 come up the first year. Always be on the lookout for the foliage. If the foliage grows, then your bulbs are healthy and getting adjusted. Once they start blooming, they will bloom for a lifetime.

How is a Narcissus tazetta different from just a Narcissus?

So you may notice that this one is called a Narcssisus tazetta. What makes a tazetta bulb different from a non-tazetta bulb? Great question! Tazetta flowers have smaller cups, but a LOT more of them. The outer petals can be white, yellow, or orange and the inner cup can be white, yellow, or orange, and there can be many combinations in between. Tazettas are generally larger and more robust than the smaller species flower bulbs often referred to as narcissus. The “tazetta” group is valued because most bulbs in this category are great perennials, and a gardener can choose selections that bloom in December, January, February, and March!

What else should I plant with my Grand Primo bulbs?

There are several other flowers that will bloom about the same time as the Grand Primo and provide a variety of color. The Grand Primo’s cream color complements most anything that you have in your garden. Be sure to check what works best for your zone and soil. Consider planting: tulips, crocus, pansies, grape hyacinth or other daffodils.

If I had to summarize everything about the Narcissus tazetta ‘Grand Primo’ I would simply say that you need to start by planting it in your garden. Once you enjoy the blooms, the vigour, the timing, the reliability, the fragrance, and more, you will figure out a way to make sure it play a prominent role in your design! Enjoy!

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