A daffodil that fizzles before it blooms is a spring promise broken. The Ice Follies Daffodil, with its creamy white petals and a flat, lemon-yellow cup that fades to white, is a perennial workhorse that should reward you for decades. But with bulb quality varying wildly online, the difference between a glorious March display and a pot of mush comes down to one thing: the source you choose.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. I’ve spent years comparing bulb specifications, studying supplier growing standards, and reading thousands of verified owner experiences to separate reliable daffodil stock from the disappointing alternatives.
After digging into the bulb sizes, firmness, and bloom outcomes reported by real gardeners, I’ve found the clear winners in the ice follies daffodil category that deliver on their perennial promise without the gamble.
How To Choose The Best Ice Follies Daffodil Bulbs
Not all daffodil bulbs are created equal. A top-shelf bulb feels heavy for its size, has no soft spots, and measures at least 12/14 cm in circumference. Anything smaller may still grow, but you’ll likely wait a full year before seeing a flower. When you’re searching for an Ice Follies Daffodil, the cultivar name “Ice Follies” itself tells you the petal color (white) and the corona color (pale yellow maturing to white). A mix labeled “assorted” might include Ice Follies alongside other varieties, which is fine for a cottage-style bed but not if you want a uniform block of white and butter-yellow.
Bulb Size Reading
The industry standard “12/14 cm” measurement refers to the bulb’s circumference, not its diameter. A 12/14 cm bulb is considered a double-nose or premium daffodil bulb that will produce one or two strong flower stalks in its first spring. Anything labeled “8/10 cm” or “10/12 cm” is a smaller, younger bulb that will likely produce only leaves the first year. For immediate gratification, always buy 12/14 cm or larger.
Freshness and Storage
Bulbs are living tissue. They should be firm, with no signs of mold, black spots, or a powdery surface. A bulb that feels light or rattles inside its tunic has likely dried out. Read recent reviews — if multiple buyers report rotten bulbs within the same batch, the seller’s storage conditions are compromised. A reputable supplier ships bulbs in breathable mesh bags or perforated plastic, not airtight packaging that encourages moisture buildup.
Bloom Time and Hardiness
Ice Follies is a mid-season daffodil, typically flowering in mid-spring after the early miniatures and before the late-season poeticus types. It’s hardy in USDA Zones 3 through 9, meaning it can handle a cold winter and still come back reliably. When reading product descriptions, verify the expected bloom period matches “mid-spring” and confirm the hardiness zone range covers your region.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 Large Assorted Pink Pride, Ice Follies, Unsurpassable, Barret Browning, Red Devon Trumpet | Premium Mix | Mass plantings, curb appeal | 50 bulbs, 3-4 inch blooms | Amazon |
| Daffodil Mix Bulbs for Planting by CZ Grain (25 Bulbs) | Premium Value | Garden beds, containers | 25 bulbs, 12/14 cm size | Amazon |
| Large Flowering Mix Daffodil Bulbs by CZ Grain (10 Bulbs) | Mid-Range Mix | Small borders, trial planting | 10 bulbs, 12/14 cm size | Amazon |
| Trumpet Daffodil Mix by Narcissus (10 Bulbs) | Mid-Range Mix | Hardy zone 3 gardens | 10 bulbs, UK grown | Amazon |
| 10 Daffodil Bulbs by Caribbeangardenseed | Budget Entry | Low-cost experiment | 10 bulbs, 5 lbs weight | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. 50 Large Assorted Pink Pride, Ice Follies, Unsurpassable, Barret Browning, Red Devon Trumpet
This is the only listing on our list that explicitly names Ice Follies as a component of the mix. With fifty bulbs, you get enough stock to create a bold mid-spring statement in a border or a naturalized drift under deciduous trees. The listing calls out bloom sizes of three to four inches, which matches the standard Ice Follies flower diameter when grown from a healthy bulb. Buyers in zone 4 reported near-total emergence by late April after a fall planting, which speaks to the bulbs’ cold hardiness and proper sizing.
Several owners noted that the package contained a mix of daffodil types rather than a single cultivar, which aligns with the description. One reviewer mentioned that all bulbs appeared to be the same flower, suggesting that some batches may lack diversity. The bulbs were described as healthy and firm by most, though a few found them smaller than anticipated. Overall, the bulb quality was solid enough for one buyer to order off-season for a funeral and receive extra bulbs and expedited shipping.
At this price point per bulb, the cost breaks well below the industry norm for premium 12/14 cm stock. The sheer volume makes this the most cost-effective way to trial Ice Follies alongside other trumpet types. Just be prepared to accept some variety in the mix—If you want a uniform block of pure Ice Follies, you may want to look at a smaller, single-cultivar offering.
What works
- Explicitly includes Ice Follies in the mix
- High bulb count for mass plantings
- Strong emergence rate reported in cold zones
What doesn’t
- Mix may not contain all named varieties
- Some bulbs reported as smaller than average
2. Daffodil Mix Bulbs for Planting by CZ Grain (25 Bulbs)
CZ Grain’s 25-bulb mix is a strong contender if you want a large number of premium-sized bulbs from a supplier that actively engages with customer issues. The bulbs are listed as 12/14 cm, which is the benchmark size for first-year flowering. Multiple reviewers described the bulbs as “sturdy” and “fully developed,” and one buyer who planted them last fall is already enjoying blooms this spring. That turnaround — fall planting to spring flowers — is exactly what you expect from premium-grade Narcissus stock.
The brand’s customer service approach stands out. One owner received rotten bulbs and reported that CZ Grain handled the problem swiftly. Another buyer noted the bulbs arrived in good condition and were planted immediately. The two negative experiences (rot and defective bulbs) appear to be exceptions, not the rule, given the volume of positive feedback about healthy, sprouting bulbs. The description recommends planting at 1.5 inches deep and spacing 2-3 inches apart, which is standard for daffodils.
This mix does not specifically name Ice Follies as a component, so the actual varieties you receive are unpredictable. However, the bulb size consistency and the seller’s responsiveness make this a low-risk way to get a mass of high-quality daffodil bulbs that will likely include trumpet types similar to Ice Follies. If you’re planting a large bed and want reliable stock, this is a solid bet.
What works
- 12/14 cm bulb size for first-year blooms
- Bulbs arrived firm and healthy for most buyers
- Responsive customer service for defects
What doesn’t
- Mix does not list specific cultivars like Ice Follies
- Occasional reports of rotten bulbs
3. Large Flowering Mix Daffodil Bulbs for Planting by CZ Grain (10 Bulbs)
At ten premium-sized bulbs (12/14 cm) with a multicolor mix including yellow, pink, orange, and white, this entry-level pack from CZ Grain is the perfect trial size for a small border or a container. The “Large Flowering Mix” label suggests the bulbs are sized for immediate performance, and most buyers confirmed they arrived healthy, with no mold or rot. One grower who planted late in the season acknowledged they might not see blooms until the following year, which is totally normal for daffodils planted outside the fall window.
The color palette advertised (pink, orange, white) does not specifically mention Ice Follies, but the white and yellow varieties in this mix are likely large-cupped or trumpet types with similar habits. A handful of buyers reported no growth yet after planting, though this could be due to late planting, cold weather, or shallow placement. The seller’s responsiveness is a recurring positive theme — one reviewer praised CZ Grain for being “outstanding” in resolving a problem with the order.
For the price, you’re getting premium bulb size from a reputable seller without committing to a larger volume. The main drawback is the uncertainty of what you’ll actually get in the mix. If you’re flexible and just want attractive large daffodils, this is an easy recommendation. If you need the exact Ice Follies cultivar, you’ll want to look at a listing that specifically names it.
What works
- 12/14 cm premium-sized bulbs
- Low price for high-quality stock
- Seller responsive to issues
What doesn’t
- Mix contents are unpredictable
- Some bulbs slow to emerge
4. Daffodil Bulbs, Trumpet Daffodil Mix by Narcissus (10 Bulbs)
This Trumpet Daffodil Mix from the Narcissus brand is grown in the United Kingdom and is rated for USDA Hardiness Zone 3, making it one of the most cold-tolerant options on the list. Trumpet daffodils share the same general flower shape as Ice Follies (large trumpet corona), though the colors tend toward classic yellow and white rather than the pale, fading cup of the Ice Follies cultivar. One verified buyer in zone 5-6 had their bulbs sprouting after a mid-to-late summer planting, which is earlier than the ideal fall window but still produced results.
The most telling review came from a customer who ordered in May 2025, found the bulbs shriveled with no growth, and then watched them all emerge the following February 2026. This is a common trait of daffodils — they can look dead on arrival but will still push up foliage after a cold period. The bulbs require moderate watering and sandy soil, which matches standard daffodil care. The package includes 10 bulbs, and the price per bulb is competitive for UK-grown stock.
The main risk is that these are ungraded bulbs — there is no listed size specification like 12/14 cm. One reviewer reported that what did sprout never bloomed and is now dying, suggesting either small bulb size or poor vitality. For experienced gardeners who understand that daffodils sometimes skip the first year, this is a decent gamble. For beginners wanting guaranteed first-year flowers, the lack of bulb size data is a concern.
What works
- UK-grown stock with good cold hardiness
- Bulbs often return even after appearing dead
- Affordable for zone 3 gardeners
What doesn’t
- No bulb size specification provided
- Some bulbs failed to bloom
5. 10 Daffodil Bulbs by Caribbeangardenseed
Caribbeangardenseed’s 10-pack of daffodil bulbs occupies the budget-friendly end of the spectrum. The listing highlights a mix of green, orange, red, white, and yellow — a wide color range that suggests a blend of large-cupped and trumpet types. The 5-pound shipping weight implies a decent overall mass, but without a stated bulb size (12/14 cm), you’re buying on faith. One buyer simply called them “beautiful,” providing no detail on bulb condition or bloom results, which is not helpful for comparison.
The counterpoint is a verified review describing the bulbs as rotten, which is a serious red flag. Rotten bulbs are almost always a storage or handling issue, and a single credible report of rot among a small review sample suggests inconsistent quality control. The bulbs are described as sandy soil and full sun — standard daffodil requirements. The Expected Blooming Period is listed as spring, and the Expected Planting Period is also spring, which is unusual because daffodils are fall-planted for spring blooms.
Given the low entry cost, this is an option for someone willing to accept the risk. If you get a good batch, you’ll have 10 bulbs for a small garden spot. But the lack of bulb size data, the rot report, and the confusing planting period all point to a supplier that may not specialize in bulbs. For your Ice Follies search, this listing is a last resort — only consider it if the other options are unavailable and you’re ready to accept potential losses.
What works
- Very low upfront cost
- Wide color variety if you get a good batch
What doesn’t
- Reported rotten bulbs
- No bulb size specification
- Confusing planting period listed
Hardware & Specs Guide
Bulb Circumference (Size Grade)
Daffodil bulbs are graded by their circumference in centimeters. A 12/14 cm bulb is roughly the size of a large walnut and is considered flowering-grade stock that will produce a bloom in its first spring. Smaller 8/10 cm or 10/12 cm bulbs are younger and may only produce leaves in the first year. Always look for 12/14 cm or larger for immediate satisfaction.
Bloom Time Classification
Ice Follies is a mid-season (mid-spring) bloomer. In the standard daffodil bloom-time sequence, it falls after the early miniatures (February/March) and before the late poeticus types (May). When selecting a mix, confirm the “Expected Blooming Period” lists “mid-spring” or “spring” to ensure your display comes at the right time for your climate.
FAQ
Are Ice Follies daffodils the same as regular trumpet daffodils?
Will smaller bulbs labeled “8/10 cm” ever bloom?
How deep should I plant Ice Follies daffodil bulbs?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most gardeners wanting the ice follies daffodil experience with a high bulb count and reliable performance, the best pick is the 50 Large Assorted Mix because it explicitly includes Ice Follies and offers enough bulbs for a mass planting. If you want a smaller, curated batch of premium 12/14 cm bulbs with strong seller support, grab the 25-bulb CZ Grain mix. And for a budget-friendly trial in a container or small border, the 10-bulb CZ Grain Large Flowering Mix gives you premium sizing without the full commitment.