Narcissus ‘Moonlight Sensation’ offers a delightful addition to any garden, embodying the fresh spirit of spring. This specific daffodil cultivar, known for its gentle hues and graceful form, has become a popular choice for gardeners seeking to introduce serene beauty into their outdoor spaces. Its presence signals the awakening of the garden, making it a welcome sight after the dormancy of winter.
Distinctive Features
Narcissus ‘Moonlight Sensation’ is a Triandrus hybrid, distinguished by its unique floral characteristics. It produces an abundance of soft yellow blooms that gradually fade to a pastel tone as they mature. Each stem can bear multiple flowers, often up to six, with a delicate, sweet fragrance. The individual flowers typically measure about 2.5 inches across, featuring an extended corona with a subtly pleated and finely scalloped edge. This daffodil generally blooms in mid-spring, illuminating the garden with its luminous presence. It reaches a mature height of 12 to 16 inches.
Planting and Cultivation
Successful cultivation of Narcissus ‘Moonlight Sensation’ begins with proper fall planting in locations that receive full sun to partial shade, where they can receive at least half a day of direct sunlight. Well-draining soil is important, as daffodil bulbs do not tolerate consistently wet conditions, especially during winter months. When planting, position each bulb at a depth approximately three times its height, which typically translates to 6 to 8 inches deep, and space them about 6 inches apart. After planting, water the bulbs thoroughly to encourage root growth before the ground freezes, and continue regular watering during dry spells in the growing season. Daffodils benefit from fertilization; applying a granular slow-release fertilizer in the fall can provide the necessary nutrients for robust growth.
Aftercare and Perennial Bloom
To ensure Narcissus ‘Moonlight Sensation’ returns year after year, proper aftercare is important once blooming concludes. Deadheading, which involves removing the spent flowers, helps redirect the plant’s energy from seed production back into the bulb. It is important to cut the flower stalk as low as possible, leaving the foliage intact. Allowing the daffodil foliage to naturally yellow and wither is crucial for the bulb’s vigor, as the leaves continue to photosynthesize after blooming, storing energy in the bulb for the following year’s flowers. Cutting back or mowing the foliage prematurely, before it has completely died down, can prevent the bulb from storing enough energy, potentially reducing future blooms. Daffodils are resistant to pests due to their toxicity to animals, including deer and voles. Watch for vertical streaks in the leaves, which could indicate a virus, and remove affected bulbs promptly.