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| Daphne |
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Daphne are generally grown for their beautiful and intensely fragrant blooms.
There are evergreen and deciduous varieties, some of which have attractive laurel-like or variegated foliage, and range in size from large shrubs to small alpine plants.
Most daphne, particularly evergreens, prefer a shady site.
Deciduous varieties, will tolerate a sunnier site, providing their roots are shaded to keep them cool and moist.
Daphne will grow in either acid or alkaline soil, but most prefer a neutral to slightly alkaline soil
A free-draining soil that is not too wet in winter or too dry in summer is ideal
Add organic matter to light sandy soil to hold moisture.
Avoid areas that are subject to water-logging, as such conditions may kill the plant.
In suspect areas add grit to the base of the planting hole to provide drainage.
When planting out grafted plants, ensure that the graft union is covered by at least 50mm (2") of soil to encourage rooting from the scion for improved vigour.
Pruning
Daphne do not respond well to pruning.
They only need light trimming, severe pruning can result in die-back.
Remove damaged, diseased or wayward growth in early spring or immediately after flowering.
All parts of Daphne are toxic.
The fruits can cause gastric upset, and the sap skin irritation.
Wear gloves when handling plants.
Propagation ;
Daphne can be difficult to propagate.
Take semi-ripe heel cuttings around Week 28-30
Alternatively layer suitable branches circa Week 13 if weather conditions allow
Week 25; Some species can be grown from ripe seed.
Remove the fleshy exterior and sow in seed compost with added grit.
Place pots in a cold frame for up to two years.
Pests and diseases
Daphne are prone to virus.
Affected plants will display yellow mottling on the leaves.
This will eventually kill the plant, so infected plants are best destroyed.
To avoid buying a virused plant, do not be tempted by those in flower.
Wait until you can buy them in leaf, then you can check for the tell tale signs
If possible, buy pot-grown plants, growing in soil-based compost, rather than peat-based compost, this will reduce root disturbance, and as a consequence the plants, will suffer less transplant shock.
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