Daffodil growers from around the world visit Northern Ireland

Daffodil breeders create all sorts of interesting colours and shapes

Causeway Sunset, Irish Charm, Finn McCool, Paddy's Legacy - all varieties of Irish daffodils.

Growers from around the world are visiting Northern Ireland to enjoy these wonderful spring flowers.

They have travelled from Australia, New Zealand, America, the UK and Ireland for the World Daffodil Convention which takes place in a different country every four years.

There is a long heritage of daffodil breeding in Ireland.

This photograph of daffodil harvesters in Killinchy, County Down, was taken in 1955

That tradition is being continued by Dave and Jules Hardy at their daffodil farm near Dromore, County Tyrone.

"Ireland as a whole has been a real hotbed of daffodil breeding and growing for the last two centuries," said Mr Hardy.

They grow more than 800 different named varieties at Esker Farm as well as many unnamed seedlings which they have created themselves.

Breeding involves taking pollen from different varieties and collecting the seed to create a new daffodil.

"You're hoping that you're going to get some new, interesting, and unusual daffodils," he said.

Breeders display their creations at shows all over the country.

While the recent persistent rain has caused problems for many, daffodils have been thriving in the conditions.

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Although the classic varieties are yellow, Mr Hardy said daffodils come in many different colours, shapes and sizes.

Dave Hardy with his daffodils of many colours

"When I started, like the majority of people, I just thought a daffodil was yellow and that was it.

"It was only then attending my first daffodil meeting with the Northern Ireland Daffodil Group that I then realised daffodils aren't just yellow, you have lots and lots of different colours.

"There's something for everyone, size-wise, ideal for small gardens where you've got miniatures and intermediates, and then if you've got a big open space and you're wanting lots, you've got your big standards."

The best Irish blooms are on show in the Court House at Royal Hillsborough, County Down, on Sunday afternoon.

Those attending the convention will also be touring gardens across Northern Ireland to see Irish daffodils in their native setting.