Troubleshooting
Bogota kohleria problems — and how to fix them
Bogota kohleria (Kohleria bogotensis) 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.
Botrytis (grey mould) on foliage
Water trapped in the dense leaf hairs creates ideal conditions for Botrytis cinerea. Always water at soil level, ensure good air circulation, and remove any dead or damaged leaves promptly.
Root rot from overwatering
The fleshy rhizomes store water, making overwatering easy. Always check that the top 2 cm of soil has dried before re-watering, and use a light, porous mix with good drainage.
Dormancy misread as death
Kohleria dies back to its rhizomes in winter. This is normal dormancy, not plant death. Reduce watering, keep the pot at a minimum of 12°C, and new shoots will emerge in late winter to early spring.
Prevent bogota kohleria problems before they start
Most bogota kohleria issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for bogota kohleria in general rather than its problems? Read the full bogota kohleria care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Bogota kohleria problems — FAQ
Why is my bogota kohleria botrytis (grey mould) on foliage?
Water trapped in the dense leaf hairs creates ideal conditions for Botrytis cinerea. Always water at soil level, ensure good air circulation, and remove any dead or damaged leaves promptly.
Why is my bogota kohleria root rot from overwatering?
The fleshy rhizomes store water, making overwatering easy. Always check that the top 2 cm of soil has dried before re-watering, and use a light, porous mix with good drainage.
Why is my bogota kohleria dormancy misread as death?
Kohleria dies back to its rhizomes in winter. This is normal dormancy, not plant death. Reduce watering, keep the pot at a minimum of 12°C, and new shoots will emerge in late winter to early spring.