Is there something about sunflower seed hulls that makes daphne die?
H.L., Lynchburg A. You are right to suspect the sunflower seed hulls, because they are known to contain natural toxins which can kill certain plants. Also consider the fact that daphne is quite particular about its environment and cultural practices.Daphnes “die for no explicable reason,” according to the “Manual of Woody Landscape Plants” by Michael Dirr. After watching several of his own daphnes die, Dirr wrote, “When they decide to go, it is usually with haste … one day green … the next day crinkled, dry looking leaves.” Fragrant daphne, also called winter daphne, is perfectly cold-hardy in the Lynchburg area. It is not common in local yards, possibly because it is difficult to grow. Q. Twigs have been falling off my magnolia tree every day for the last week. I have a whole garbage bag full of 8- to 10-inch magnolia twigs, which were on the ground by the tree. It is an old tree, and I have never seen this kind of thing happen before. B.C., Lynchburg A. Squirrels seem to enjoy chewin
