Why Your Daphne Is Wilting and Likely Can't Be Saved

Q: My daphne looks wilted. Watering didn't help. How can I save it?

You probably can't. Daphne is highly susceptible to Phytophthora root rot, which also affects azaleas and rhododendrons. Once roots are clogged by the fungus, no amount of water helps. I lost a beautiful 5-year-old daphne this way—healthy one July evening, wilted the next.

Despite this, I'll replant another next spring. The early-spring fragrance makes its short lifespan worth it for many gardeners.