The ‘Mary Gay Lirette’ daffodil is a distinctive variety that brings a unique aesthetic to spring gardens. This cultivar stands out among traditional daffodils, making it a desirable selection for gardeners seeking refined beauty. Its appeal lies in its unconventional form, offering a fresh interpretation of the classic spring bloom.
Distinctive Traits
‘Mary Gay Lirette’ is a split-corona daffodil, belonging to Division XI (11a). Its central cup, or corona, is split for more than half its length, creating a ruffled, almost peony-like appearance. The flowers feature white perianth segments complementing a salmon-colored cup that initially emerges yellow and then matures to its hue.
Mature flowers measure approximately 3¾ inches across and are often sweetly scented. This daffodil blooms in early to mid-spring, with stems reaching 14 to 16 inches. While many pink daffodils lean towards apricot, ‘Mary Gay Lirette’ is noted for its true pink coloration.
Cultivation and Care
‘Mary Gay Lirette’ daffodils thrive in average, medium-moisture, well-drained soils. Good soil drainage is important, as bulbs can rot in overly wet conditions. An organically rich loam is preferred, with a slightly acidic soil pH, between 6.0 and 7.0. These daffodils perform well in full sun to part shade.
Plant bulbs in early to mid-fall to establish roots before winter. Plant the bulb two to three times its height deep, 3 to 6 inches, ensuring at least 3 inches of soil cover. Space bulbs 4 to 10 inches apart, with larger bulbs requiring more space. During the growing season, maintain uniformly moist soil, but plants tolerate drought once dormant.
After blooming, remove the top portion of the flower stem to prevent seed formation, but leave foliage until it yellows and dies back naturally. This allows leaves to absorb sunlight, replenishing the bulb for the following year’s blooms. Daffodil bulbs can remain undisturbed for several years; however, if bloom quality declines, clumps may be divided after foliage dies back. Fertilize lightly with a bulb-specific fertilizer in early spring, or use compost and aged animal manure, avoiding high-nitrogen options.
Addressing Common Challenges
Daffodils are robust plants, but issues can arise. Basal rot, caused by a soil-borne fungus, is a disease that leads to decay of the bulb’s base, often during storage. Symptoms include softened bulbs, premature yellowing of foliage, and lack of flowering. To prevent this, ensure good drainage, avoid damaging bulbs during handling, and discard any infected bulbs before planting.
The narcissus bulb fly is another pest, with larvae feeding on the inside of daffodil bulbs. Adult flies resemble bumblebees and lay eggs near the bulbs in early summer. Infested bulbs may show stunted growth or fail to produce flowers. Prevention includes planting healthy, firm bulbs and removing any soft or damaged ones. Deer and rabbits avoid ‘Mary Gay Lirette’ daffodils due to their toxicity.
Where to Find This Daffodil
‘Mary Gay Lirette’ daffodil bulbs are available from various sources. Specialized bulb nurseries and online retailers are common places to acquire this variety. Some garden centers may also stock them.
When sourcing bulbs, prioritize reputable suppliers to ensure quality and health. Purchase bulbs that are firm and free from black spots or signs of rot. Bulbs are typically offered for sale in the fall for planting.