Don’s Expert Answers: Have a healthy daphne but flower buds will not open

Question From:
Phyllis Cheney in Bellara, Bribie island Queensland

Nature of problem:
Have a healthy daphne but flower buds will not open

Type of Plant (if known):
Daphne

Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
Buds not opening

Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
Sandy well drain soil

How often do you water the plant:
Twice a week more if needed

How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
8 hrs morning sun then part shade

How long since you planted it:
Two years

Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
No

Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
No

Is the plant in a pot or in the ground:
In the ground

What other treatments have you given the plant:
Nil

Upload photo if available:

Other Comments:
The daphne looks healthy has new growth buds appear but don’t open it is growing partly under a tree fern which protects it from the afternoon sun

Answer:
Hi Phyllis, Daphnes are cold climate plants, so Bribie Island would be their idea of hell. They are unreliable in coastal Qld. Your best hope is to grow your daphne in a pot with Osmocote premium potting mix. Even then, success is a 50/50 matter. Have fun trying, but do realise that it is a challenge. Don