Double Daffodil 'Great Leap'

Double daffodils look lusher than single varieties because the corona is divided into many petals. 'Great Leap' shows this in bright yellow. The flowers appear early, as early as March, when the garden still has little colour. The stems are strong and carry the full flowers well.

At 35–45 cm tall, it suits beds, woodland edges and lawns. Combine it with blue squills, glory-of-the-snow or grape hyacinths for a strong contrast. White crocuses and Christmas roses are also lovely companions. In large containers on the patio it provides early colour.

In the vase the double flowers look especially splendid. The bulbs return every year and naturalise in suitable spots. Voles and deer avoid daffodils, as all parts are poisonous. This makes the variety well suited to gardens where other bulbs are regularly eaten. A sheltered spot protects the heavy flowers from rain.

Plant the bulbs from September to November 10–15 cm deep, tip upwards and 10–15 cm apart. A sunny to partially shaded spot with free-draining soil is ideal. In heavy soils, add some sand to the planting hole to prevent waterlogging.

Leave the foliage for at least six weeks after flowering, until it turns yellow, as this is how the bulb forms next year's flowers. Pinch off faded flowers. In a lawn, only mow once the foliage has died back. Daffodils are poisonous; their stem sap harms other cut flowers, so stand them in water on their own for a few hours first.