When a catalogue says King Alfred type, this is usually what arrives. 'Dutch Master' is a large golden-yellow trumpet daffodil, 16 to 20 inches tall, with a long trumpet and broad, slightly ruffled petals in the same saturated yellow. It is vigorous, long-lived, and one of the best for planting by the hundred in grass or under trees.
It flowers in the main daffodil season and holds up well in wind and late frost. For cutting, take stems when the bud has coloured and bent to the horizontal, and condition them alone before mixing with other flowers.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Grey fuzzy mould on petals and stems, worst in cool wet conditions.
Remove affected parts immediately. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Apply copper fungicide if severe.
Narcissus Basal Rot
Brown rot starting at the base of the bulb, spreading upward; soft, decaying tissue and stunted or failed growth in spring. Fungal growth may appear pink or white.
Discard infected bulbs. Plant only firm, healthy bulbs in well-draining soil. Avoid hot, wet conditions during summer dormancy and rotate planting sites.
Narcissus Yellow Stripe Virus
Yellow or pale streaks running lengthwise along leaves; distorted foliage and reduced flower size or vigor over successive years.
No cure. Remove and destroy infected plants. Control aphids, which spread the virus, and buy certified virus-free bulbs.