The Sweet Paradise Daffodil is a popular choice for garden enthusiasts. It offers a charming display and has simple care requirements, bringing a welcome burst of color to spring landscapes.
Unique Characteristics of Sweet Paradise Daffodil
The Sweet Paradise Daffodil features creamy white petals framing a ruffled, peach-pink trumpet. This bi-color combination makes it a stand-out in spring gardens, with blooms typically appearing from mid to late spring.
This double daffodil reaches a mature height of approximately 14 to 18 inches, with sturdy stems that support its blossoms even in windy conditions. Its varying shades of cream, pink, and apricot allow for versatile coordination with different garden color palettes.
Planting Sweet Paradise Daffodil
Optimal planting time for Sweet Paradise Daffodil bulbs is in the fall, six to eight weeks before the first hard frost. This allows bulbs sufficient time to establish roots before the ground freezes. They thrive in locations that receive full sun to partial shade, requiring at least six hours of sunlight daily.
Well-drained soil is essential to prevent bulb rot, as daffodils do not tolerate soggy conditions. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, incorporating organic matter such as compost or sand can improve drainage. Plant bulbs with the pointed end facing upwards, approximately six inches deep and four to six inches apart. This depth is three times the height of the bulb.
Caring for Sweet Paradise Daffodil
After planting, water bulbs thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root development. During the growing season, maintain consistently moist but not waterlogged soil, watering deeply once a week if rainfall is insufficient. Once flowers fade, reduce watering as bulbs enter their dormancy period.
Fertilization is beneficial; a balanced, slow-release fertilizer is incorporated at planting time in the fall. A light feeding in early spring when new shoots emerge promotes strong growth, and a post-bloom application helps bulbs store energy for the next season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which encourage excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.
Once blooms fade, deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed formation, which diverts energy from the bulb. Allow foliage to remain intact until it yellows and dies back naturally, six to eight weeks after flowering. Leaves are crucial for photosynthesis, converting sunlight into energy stored in the bulb for the following year’s blooms. Removing foliage too early can result in fewer or smaller blooms in subsequent years. Sweet Paradise Daffodils are resistant to deer and rabbits, making them a low-maintenance option.