Naturalising daffodils in drifts

If planting a large number of bulbs to naturalise:

The quickest method involves two people. One uses a bulb planting tool to make the hole and the other follows behind dropping bulbs into each hole and covering with turf. Alternatively, for massed planting, a 12in (30cm) square of turf is dug out to a depth of no less than 6in (15cm). Five, seven or nine bulbs are spaced in each hole, before the turf is replaced. After flowering, the grass is left unmown for six weeks to allow the leaves to replenish the bulbs. If flowering diminishes, it is likely the clumps are congested and require dividing. After flowering, well-established clumps are teased free of the earth using a fork. They are gently split, removing any damaged bulbs, while leaving small offsets attached to the side of parent bulbs. The bulbs are replanted at the same depth and spacing.

With its white petals and orange centres, narcissus ‘Mercato’ creates a dazzling block of colour. Narcissus ‘Minnow’ is a dwarf variety with flat, pale yellow cups and a heady scent. An all-yellow daffodil with a sweet fragrance, ‘Pipit’ bears multiple...