This field of Narcissus Golden Harvest, planted by Beechill Growers, was harvested for the last time in 2007. The field then went back in to use for silage, but every year there still arises a spectacular golden glow – particularly in the sunny weather we’ve been having the past few days.

It was in conversation with my brother-in-law, Stuart, a few days ago that he remarked on how well the field looked,  despite the fact that he harvested these bulbs for the last time in 2007. Surprisingly – as he recalled that the variety is Golden Harvest – the quality of the flowers has only improved with the passing years. This is despite the fact that Golden Harvest would be prone to a number of diseases that affect daffodils.

Of course these risks may have been mitigated by the fact that the bulbs haven’t been disturbed since 2007, as some of the ill effects are caused by exposure to air and fluctuating temperatures when lifted, as well as Darwinian selection playing its part  and that the vulnerable bulbs died off within a couple of seasons while the strongest remain. 

Either way, its a sight that raises your spirits as March gives way to April, the days get a little longer and we feel a little bit more sunshine on our faces.