Troubleshooting
African Wormwood problems — and how to fix them
African Wormwood (Artemisia afra) 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.
Frost dieback
Tops blacken below about -3°C. Cut dead stems back to the base in spring; plants typically regenerate rapidly if roots were unfrozen. In USDA Zone 8, mulch around the crown in winter.
Root rot from waterlogging
Heavy or compacted soil causes crown rot. Improve drainage with coarse grit and raise the planting site. Avoid irrigation during cold periods.
Aphid infestations
Soft new spring growth attracts aphids and whitefly. Knock off with a water jet; apply insecticidal soap if populations are heavy. Natural predators usually control light infestations.
Prevent african wormwood problems before they start
Most african wormwood issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
African Wormwood problems — FAQ
Why is my african wormwood frost dieback?
Tops blacken below about -3°C. Cut dead stems back to the base in spring; plants typically regenerate rapidly if roots were unfrozen. In USDA Zone 8, mulch around the crown in winter.
Why is my african wormwood root rot from waterlogging?
Heavy or compacted soil causes crown rot. Improve drainage with coarse grit and raise the planting site. Avoid irrigation during cold periods.
Why is my african wormwood aphid infestations?
Soft new spring growth attracts aphids and whitefly. Knock off with a water jet; apply insecticidal soap if populations are heavy. Natural predators usually control light infestations.