DAFFODILS: COME AND SEE FOR YOUR SELF

DAFFODILS ON HWY. 13 JUST NORTH OF DOWNTOWN

Tuesday, 9:00 AM.  58 degrees F at the ferry dock, 56 on the back porch.  Wind W, light with moderate gusts.  The sky is overcast, and it looks like rain, but the humidity is only 49% so it probably will not do so.  The barometer is rising sharply, now at 29.74".  It is the first actually warm morning we have had as yet, and spring should really pop now. No more nor'easter off the cold waters of the big lake.

   Bayfield's daffodil display is really intensifying, and the daffodils will all be in full bloom in a day or two.  

   I have pretty much been responsible for the daffodil plantings, and have faced some criticism for producing a monotonous display, mostly all the same color and size of daffodils.  My principle was simple: the most color for the dollar, and the easiest display to plant and care for.

   The bulbs are all old standbys, like King Alfred.  They are dependable and inexpensive.  Mixed sizes and colors are fine for gardens, but these are mass displays.  Tulips can be naturalized also, but deer love them and do not eat daffodils, which are distasteful to wildlife.  The last thing I wish to be responsible for is attracting deer to the city.

   Minor bulbs such as crocus and scilla can make a nice display as well and they might be added in the future, but daffodils are showy, tall enough to be seen, inexpensive and easy to plant with a good crew and power tools. 

Come and see for yourself.