Leaves Of Transplanted Daphne Have Wilted And Are Starting To Dry Out

Question From: M. Weer - Paradise, California, United States
Q: I am planning a move and wanted to take my Daphne (which I propagated from a tiny leaf, so I am quite fond of it.) with me. I replanted it into a large container about 8 weeks ago. Suddenly the weather turned quite hot and the plant started to decline. At this point the leaves are quite wilted and starting to dry out. I have removed about 1/3 of the leaves. All branches and stems are still pliable. Should I remove all the leaves and/or should I cut the plant back? If it might help to cut it back how should I go about that?

A: Stop removing leaves or you will surely kill the plant. Leaves manufacture food for the plant via photosynthesis. Daphnes resent disturbance so the best thing to do is keep it watered so the soil stays moist bit not sodden and place the pot in an area that is out of the hot afternoon sun. Good Luck, Nancy