Daphne mezereum

Germination

Sow indoors asap. Prior to sowing soak seeds in warm water for 2-3 days, changing the water every day. Remove any pulpy material still clinging to the seeds. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp. 18-21°C for 2 months then cold stratify. Move to 4°C for 3 months. Return to room temp. 15-18°C for germination. Germination is slow and irregular taking 150-365 days approx. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out when danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Prefers a moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil in sun or part shade. Will not tolerate root disturbance and resents transplanting. Mulch in spring with well-rotted organic matter to keep the roots cool, but keep away from the plant stem. Established plants should not be moved.

Cultivation

Propagate by seed in a cold frame as soon as ripe or via green wood cuttings in spring-summer. Pruning is best kept to a minimum, Pruning group 1.