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Heavenly Scent

© Graham Leatherbarrow

Fragrance is not usually the first thing that comes to mind when talking about gardening, and its importance in our appreciation of gardens is often forgotten. This month we are going to look at a group of plants that have pronounced pongs in abundance. These plants are often thought of as awkward customers, yet with a little forethought and planning they can become a blooming success year after year. So, who or what are these temperamental devils I refer to? Daphnes of course!

The elusive nymph Daphne, a daughter of the river god Peneios, is reputed to have escaped the attentions of the god Apollo only after Zeus took pity on her plight and transferred her from the animal to the plant kingdom — he transformed her in mid-flight to a small tree. So much for the legend! The plant known to the Greeks as Daphne was in fact Laurus nobilis, the Bay Tree, better known these days for its use in flavouring stews.

The genus Daphne contains roughly seventy species, which in turn belong to the large Thyme family containing over fifty genera. There are evergreen and deciduous daphnes, large and tiny ones, tall and prostrate kinds — in fact, daphnes to suit almost every garden. Their cultivation is an area where no two gardeners agree. That said, my experience shows me certain definite principles and guidelines that can be applied successfully.

General Cultivation

In cultivation, daphnes are tolerant of a wide range of pH. All daphnes require a well-drained soil. Some of the woodlanders like D. pontica and D. laureola are more easy going, but none enjoy poor drainage. Good drainage is however not to be confused with poor moisture retaining soils or composts. One of the easiest ways to kill daphnes if for them to be planted in a medium which dries out too rapidly. Humus of some sort should be present within the soil or compost to maintain reasonable moisture levels around the plant roots. Daphnes on the whole prefer an open aspect in full sun, provided of that course they are not in danger of drying out. D. pontica and D. laureola prefer partial shade, but would tolerate more open situations if not sun-baked. It's probably useful to remember that most daphnes being alpine plants in the wild, have their roots going deep down through rocks which whilst providing sharp drainage also keep the roots cool and moist.

Feeding

Good soil preparation on planting is usually sufficient, followed by an occasional dressing of bone meal and/or well-rotted humus.

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