Troubleshooting
Hot Water Plant problems — and how to fix them
Hot Water Plant (Achimenes longiflora) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Failure to emerge in spring
Rhizomes require warmth (above 18°C) to break dormancy. If pots are kept in a cold space, growth will be delayed. Apply warm water and move to a warm, bright spot to encourage sprouting.
Bud drop
Caused by low humidity, temperature fluctuations, or moving the plant while in bud. Keep conditions stable and humidity above 50% during bud development.
Leggy stems
Caused by insufficient light. Pinch back growing tips early in the season to encourage branching and a bushier, more floriferous plant.
Spider mites
In hot, dry conditions fine webbing and stippled leaves appear. Increase humidity, spray with water, and apply insecticidal soap as needed.
Rotting rhizomes in storage
Store dormant rhizomes in slightly damp vermiculite (not dry and not wet) at 10-15°C. Check monthly; discard any soft, rotted pieces.
Prevent hot water plant problems before they start
Most hot water plant issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hot Water Plant problems — FAQ
Why is my hot water plant failure to emerge in spring?
Rhizomes require warmth (above 18°C) to break dormancy. If pots are kept in a cold space, growth will be delayed. Apply warm water and move to a warm, bright spot to encourage sprouting.
Why is my hot water plant bud drop?
Caused by low humidity, temperature fluctuations, or moving the plant while in bud. Keep conditions stable and humidity above 50% during bud development.
Why is my hot water plant leggy stems?
Caused by insufficient light. Pinch back growing tips early in the season to encourage branching and a bushier, more floriferous plant.
Why is my hot water plant spider mites?
In hot, dry conditions fine webbing and stippled leaves appear. Increase humidity, spray with water, and apply insecticidal soap as needed.
Why is my hot water plant rotting rhizomes in storage?
Store dormant rhizomes in slightly damp vermiculite (not dry and not wet) at 10-15°C. Check monthly; discard any soft, rotted pieces.