Troubleshooting
Aleutian Mountain Heath problems — and how to fix them
Aleutian Mountain Heath (Phyllodoce aleutica) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root rot from poor drainage
The most frequent cause of plant death in cultivation. Ensure the growing medium drains freely; raise in a scree bed or add coarse lime-free grit to improve drainage. Symptoms are sudden wilting and blackening of the base despite moist soil.
Iron chlorosis
Yellowing between leaf veins occurs when soil pH creeps above 6.0 or when alkaline tap water is used. Remedy by applying chelated iron (sequestered iron) and switching to rainwater irrigation.
Prevent aleutian mountain heath problems before they start
Most aleutian mountain heath issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Aleutian Mountain Heath problems — FAQ
Why is my aleutian mountain heath root rot from poor drainage?
The most frequent cause of plant death in cultivation. Ensure the growing medium drains freely; raise in a scree bed or add coarse lime-free grit to improve drainage. Symptoms are sudden wilting and blackening of the base despite moist soil.
Why is my aleutian mountain heath iron chlorosis?
Yellowing between leaf veins occurs when soil pH creeps above 6.0 or when alkaline tap water is used. Remedy by applying chelated iron (sequestered iron) and switching to rainwater irrigation.