Daphne

Once again we have an extensive list of Daphne to offer, there are a few first time offerings this season and we have a number of exciting new plants that we plan to add to the catalog once we build up sufficient numbers.Probably our favorite genus of flowering shrubs, you simply never can have too many Daphne. Always expensive because they are not always easy to propagate and tend to grow on poorly in pots. They only come into their own when dropped in the ground where they quickly form beautiful plants. Potted ones always seem to have a scraggly look. Many have phenomenal fragrance and are perfect for smaller gardens. Resist the temptation to purchase large plants as they resent disturbance and do not transplant well when they get large. There are many recipes for success but a sandy well-drained soil in full sun seems best. They dislike it too wet, ours grow well in pH 7-8 and Punnett grows them to perfection in the acid sand his Rhodo's thrive in.They are very sensitive to Phytophthora cinnamonea and related fungi, control it and you will have no problems. Phytophthora likes high organic fertile soils and wet conditions, and grows better at certain pH levels and temperatures, Daphne’s like it dry. Subdue is the primary fungicidal control but is no substitute for good culture. If you are a Daphne Freak don’t forget to check out Robin Whites book on Daphne from Timber Press, it is excellent, however the hardiness ratings make no sense in the US. Most of the daphne listed below have withstood –20F with no snow cover and survived, however, it wouldn’t break my heart if it never gets that cold again.