Daphnes are one of my favourite shrubs, especially Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’, the fragrance is so intense. It does not seem to be widely grown, maybe that’s because it’s not the easiest shrub to grow.
Give careful attention to its cultivation and it should do well. They need placing in a sunny or part shaded position, with shelter from cold winds. Plant in well drained, moisture retentive soil. Daphne do not like drought or waterlogged conditions. It is best to plant them in the spring. They can be slow to get going, but when they get established, can grow quite tall, (mine is over 5ft). Daphnes detest moving and don’t usually transplant successfully, they also dislike being pruned. Mulch with well rotted organic matter in the spring. My Daphne is worth the time and care I have spent on it, just for the joy it gives me in late winter.
Mahonia is a good all-rounder, and easy to grow. It flowers in the winter, with dark green glossy leaves, which look good all year round. After the flowers have gone they produce purple/black berries. Grow in moderately fertile, moist, but well drained soil. It prefers full to partial shade. I find mine flower better with a bit of shelter from the wind.
Hellebores are also a seasonal treat for me, there is such a wide variety to choose from now. They like a rich well drained, soil in dappled shade.
Jobs to do this month:
- Keep a check on house plants for pests and diseases. Put house plants in a bright, draught free place.
- It’s a good time to dig the vegetable plot where it is clear to do so.
- Check stored tubers of dahlias for signs of rot.
- Prune apple trees now to let in air and light. Heel in bare root fruit trees, if you are unable to plant straight away.
- Walk round the garden to see where you could put some winter planting.
Something special this month
Elsewhere in this issue you will see that the parish council have some trees to give away. These are from the Woodland Trust, and are for us to plant in memory of those who died in the two world wars. There are seven names on our war memorial, so it would be good if the trees could be planted in groups of seven.
If you are going to plant some of these trees, dig a hole which is wider than the roots, but not deeper. This will encourage the roots to spread out, and avoids having a waterlogged sump. It is also a good idea to sprinkle the roots with a little micorrhizal fungi when you plant them. This helps the tree to establish quickly. Lots of places sell this fungi – just check on the internet if you can’t find it in a local garden centre.