From my perspective as a Daphne, the single most important factor for my survival is my new home's location. I am a shrub of refined tastes, and my roots are notoriously sensitive. I require a spot with excellent drainage; sitting in cold, waterlogged soil will quickly lead to my demise from root rot. Please plant me where the soil is rich in organic matter, slightly acidic to neutral (a pH between 5.5 and 7.0 is ideal), and never in a low-lying area where water collects. I appreciate dappled sunlight or partial shade, perhaps under the light canopy of a tall tree that protects my delicate leaves from the harsh afternoon sun. A little morning sun is wonderful, but too much direct exposure will cause me immense stress.
When you bring me home from the nursery, please handle me with the utmost care. My root ball is fragile and does not like to be disturbed. Gently remove me from my container, but do not tease my roots apart aggressively as you might with other plants. If I am slightly pot-bound, you can make a few very gentle, vertical cuts around the sides of the root ball to encourage new growth outward. The hole you dig should be wide, about twice the diameter of my container, but only as deep as I was previously growing. Planting me too deep is a death sentence; my root flare must remain level with, or even slightly above, the surrounding soil grade.
Place me gently into the prepared hole, ensuring I am standing straight. Backfill the hole with the native soil you removed, perhaps amended with a little compost or well-rotted leaf mold. Do not pack the soil down heavily with your feet; instead, firm it gently with your hands to eliminate large air pockets while still allowing for aeration. Immediately after planting, provide me with a long, deep drink of water to help my soil settle around my roots and to alleviate transplant shock. This initial hydration is critical for my recovery.
To help me retain moisture and keep my roots cool and undisturbed, apply a modest layer of organic mulch, like wood chips or shredded bark, around my base. Please ensure the mulch does not touch my main stem, as this can encourage rot. While I am establishing myself, consistent moisture is key. Water me deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, but never allow my feet to sit in water. I am deeply offended by heavy fertilization. Please, no strong chemical fertilizers. At most, a light top-dressing of compost in the spring is all the nourishment I require. With this careful attention, I will reward you with my breathtakingly fragrant blooms for years to come.
