The Height of Tiritomba Daffodils

The Flower

• Thriving in U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zones 3 through 8, the tiritomba daffodil sprouts in mid-spring and reaches a mature height of 16 inches. Also called the butterfly daffodil, the tiritomba features contrasting white petals, combined with orange and yellow cups, that give the flower the look of a butterfly in flight. The size of this plant also makes it an ideal cut flower to mix with other spring blossoms.

Planting

• Plant tiritomba mid-fall before frost sets in. To ensure the plant reaches its full 16-inch height, plant the bulb in the garden at least three times the depth of the bulb. The mid-range height of this variety also makes container or window box planting an option and allows for layering with both taller and shorter blooming bulbs for bright, colorful spring gardens. Plant in well-drained soil and water it well to allow the roots to establish before the ground freezes.

Care

• To ensure full growth and yearly visits, keep your tiritomba daffodils well watered; dry conditions will significantly stunt flower growth. If using containers, add water-retaining crystals to help with moisture retention. As the blooms fade, remove the spent flowers but not the leaves; they need to remain until wilted and yellow as they are still sending energy to the bulb for the following year's growth. When blooming plants begin to get crowded, divide and separate them. Once daffodils become overcrowded, the leaves will grow, but flowers will not develop.

Forcing

• The colors of tiritomba can be enjoyed year-round by creating conditions that force the bulb to bloom. Plant bulbs in pots so the soil is just below the top of the bulbs and water well. To ensure full growth to its mature height, the potted bulbs need to remain at 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 16 weeks. Once the cold requirement is met, remove pots to an area that reaches 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit; and as they begin to grow, move them into a bright spot. Keep them well watered during the forcing process.