Daphne is one of the first heralds of spring in the garden. Its delicate pink flowers herald spring and attract insects to the garden.
Daphne brings color to the garden. The deciduous flowering shrub is mainly found in Eurasia, but is also becoming more and more popular in gardens in Germany. Due to its low stature, the shrub is often used as an eye-catcher in beds. At the same time, the flowers are very popular with bees and bumblebees.
General information about Daphne
The daphne is one of the daphne plants and is available in around 50 different versions. Many of the species are rarely found here. The Daphne mezereum is particularly widespread. This is the real daphne, which is listed as a winter bloomer. The flowering period begins in February and lasts until April. This makes it one of the first signs in the garden that spring is just around the corner. The flowers are rich in nectar and change color from pink to white. After they have withered, fruits form, which are readily accepted by the birds.
Important: Regardless of the variety, all Daphne fruits are poisonous to humans!
| Duphne (Daphne) | |
|---|---|
| Growth: | bush, shrub |
| Growth: | up to 40 cm |
| Growth: | up to 20cm |
| Flower: | February to April |
| Location: | partly shaded to shady |
| Floor: | calcareous, nutritious, moist |
The ideal location for Daphne
Daphne is a plant that is quite undemanding and this is already evident in the optimal location. This should be shady to semi-shady. Daphne is content with a nutrient-rich and slightly moist soil. It is good for beautiful flowering if the soil is also calcareous.
The plants are brought out in autumn. But it is also possible to plant daphne in spring. The distances between the individual plants should be at least 50 cm. After planting, mulch can be placed over the soil to protect it. Mulch is also idealsuitable to prevent waterlogging.
- This is important for planting
- Sowing in autumn or spring
- half-shady to shady location
- calcareous soil
- Distance of 50 cm between plants
- Mulch as a moisture regulator
Note: Daphne has very long roots. If it is to be implemented, then this is only recommended in the first three years. In the following years, the roots are so strongly attached to the soil that the plants would probably be damaged.
Caring for Daphne
Water Daphne
Daphne is a plant that doesn't need much attention and will bloom even if forgotten. This is often even better than watering the area too frequently. Waterlogging can quickly lead to daphne withering.
If there is a dry period, daphne should be watered as regularly as possible. In a shady to semi-shady location, it can be watered throughout the day. If the daphne is in the sun, it should only be cared for in the morning or in the evening.
Does the daphne need to be cut?
Pruning is not usually necessary as this is a shrub that does not spread uncontrollably in width or height. However, if the shrub is to remain very small, it can be pruned in late spring after flowering. A compact plant also offers a nicer flower appearance, as the new flowers always appear on the old shoots.
It is therefore advisable to cut back once a year and cut off at least a third. Over the years, the shrubs develop into a bushy highlight in the bed. It is sometimes worth removing very old shoots from the lower area, as this will result in more new shoots.
Increase Daphne
The fruits are optimal for the propagation of Daphne. In spring, when the fruits are fully ripe, they are picked and sown. They can also be dried and planted in the ground in the fall.
It is also possible to work with reducers. If the plants are generally to be cut short, sinkers can be used to expand the area with daphne or to use the plant elsewhere. Buying or using cuttings is not recommended. These rarely grow.
Possible pests and diseases
If the flowers are orIf the branches of the Daphne show signs of wilting, this may indicate a fungal infestation. This is the so-called Verticillium wilt. Even if the plant has sufficient moisture, wilting will begin. It is not possible to prevent this. Plants should be removed and discarded.
In addition, Daphne attracts nudibranchs. If they are discovered, they should be removed as soon as possible.