Troubleshooting
Alpine Balsam problems — and how to fix them
Alpine Balsam (Erinus alpinus) 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.
Short lifespan
Erinus alpinus is monocarpic or short-lived perennial; individual plants typically live 2–3 years. Allow self-seeding or collect and resow seed annually to maintain the colony.
Damping off of seedlings
Self-sown seedlings in heavy or wet soil can be lost to damping-off fungi. Thin overcrowded seedlings and ensure good drainage and air circulation.
Slugs and snails
Young rosettes are attractive to slugs, especially in damp conditions. Use copper tape around containers, iron phosphate slug pellets, or position plants in exposed, dry rock crevices where slugs are less active.
Prevent alpine balsam problems before they start
Most alpine balsam issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Alpine Balsam problems — FAQ
Why is my alpine balsam short lifespan?
Erinus alpinus is monocarpic or short-lived perennial; individual plants typically live 2–3 years. Allow self-seeding or collect and resow seed annually to maintain the colony.
Why is my alpine balsam damping off of seedlings?
Self-sown seedlings in heavy or wet soil can be lost to damping-off fungi. Thin overcrowded seedlings and ensure good drainage and air circulation.
Why is my alpine balsam slugs and snails?
Young rosettes are attractive to slugs, especially in damp conditions. Use copper tape around containers, iron phosphate slug pellets, or position plants in exposed, dry rock crevices where slugs are less active.