Narcissus ‘Toto’ is a dwarf daffodil known for its multi-headed blooms. This variety features star-shaped flowers with white petals and a creamy-yellow trumpet that gradually fades to white. Its compact size makes it a versatile choice for containers, rock gardens, and garden borders. Introduced in 1983 as a hybrid, ‘Toto’ provides an early spring display.
Planting and Growing Narcissus ‘Toto’
Plant Narcissus ‘Toto’ bulbs in autumn, allowing them to establish roots before winter. Select a site that receives full sun to partial shade for healthy growth and abundant flowering. These daffodils thrive in well-draining soil, with a preferred pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Amending heavy clay soils with organic matter like compost or coarse sand improves drainage and helps prevent bulb rot.
When planting, position bulbs with the pointed end facing upwards. Plant them two to three times their height deep, which is about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) for ‘Toto’. Space bulbs approximately 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) apart for growth and air circulation. Immediately after planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the bulbs.
Care and Maintenance
Water Narcissus ‘Toto’ consistently during its active spring growth. Reduce watering once foliage yellows and the plant enters summer dormancy to prevent bulb rot. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering, particularly during leaf development and flowering.
Fertilization is optional, as bulbs store their own nutrients. A balanced bulb food or bone meal can be incorporated into the soil during autumn planting for nutrients. Alternatively, apply a water-soluble fertilizer in early spring as new leaves emerge, or after flowering to support bulb rejuvenation. Deadheading spent flowers redirects the plant’s energy from seed production back into the bulb, supporting stronger blooms next year.
Allow foliage to yellow and die back completely. This process allows leaves to photosynthesize and transfer energy and nutrients back to the bulb for next season’s flowering. Prematurely cutting leaves weakens the bulb, resulting in fewer or smaller blooms. In colder climates, a layer of mulch provides winter protection for bulbs.
Common Issues and Solutions
A common problem is when Narcissus ‘Toto’ produces foliage but fails to bloom, known as “blindness.” This is due to insufficient sunlight, overcrowding, or inadequate nutrients. Relocating bulbs to a sunnier spot, dividing overcrowded clumps, or applying a balanced fertilizer can resolve this.
Bulb rot is a concern, caused by excessive moisture or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include soft, discolored bulbs and stunted or yellowing foliage. Ensuring well-drained planting sites and avoiding overwatering are preventive measures. Severely affected bulbs should be discarded to prevent spread.
Generally pest-resistant, Narcissus ‘Toto’ can be affected by narcissus bulb flies, slugs, or bulb mites. Narcissus bulb fly larvae burrow into bulbs, damaging them and causing wilting foliage. Slugs and snails may chew on leaves, leaving holes. Good garden hygiene, proper bulb inspection before planting, and adequate air circulation minimize pest problems.