Troubleshooting
Bradley's Spleenwort problems — and how to fix them
Bradley's Spleenwort (Asplenium bradleyi) 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.
Wrong soil pH — alkaline damage
Unlike most spleenworts, Bradley's Spleenwort requires acidic soil. Planting in alkaline or lime-rich compost causes rapid yellowing and death. Always use pH-tested, ericaceous substrate and avoid limestone-grit amendments.
Slug damage to emerging fronds
Young croziers unfurling in spring are vulnerable to slug attack in damp, shaded garden positions. Apply iron-phosphate slug pellets around the crown before new growth emerges.
Prevent bradley's spleenwort problems before they start
Most bradley's spleenwort issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for bradley's spleenwort in general rather than its problems? Read the full bradley's spleenwort care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Bradley's Spleenwort problems — FAQ
Why is my bradley's spleenwort wrong soil ph — alkaline damage?
Unlike most spleenworts, Bradley's Spleenwort requires acidic soil. Planting in alkaline or lime-rich compost causes rapid yellowing and death. Always use pH-tested, ericaceous substrate and avoid limestone-grit amendments.
Why is my bradley's spleenwort slug damage to emerging fronds?
Young croziers unfurling in spring are vulnerable to slug attack in damp, shaded garden positions. Apply iron-phosphate slug pellets around the crown before new growth emerges.