Troubleshooting
Caltha palustris problems — and how to fix them
Caltha palustris (Caltha palustris) 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.
Summer dieback
Foliage often yellows and collapses after flowering as the plant goes dormant. This is normal in dry heat; keep it moist and growth returns the next spring.
Powdery mildew
White coating on leaves in dry or crowded conditions. Improve airflow and keep the rootzone consistently wet to reduce stress.
Poor flowering
Usually too much shade or soil that dries out. Move to a sunnier, reliably wet spot for the best display of golden cups.
Drying out
As a true bog plant it wilts fast in dry soil. Maintain saturated ground or a shallow water margin at all times.
Prevent caltha palustris problems before they start
Most caltha palustris issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Caltha palustris varieties: common problems
Looking for caltha palustris in general rather than its problems? Read the full caltha palustris care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Caltha palustris problems — FAQ
Why is my caltha palustris summer dieback?
Foliage often yellows and collapses after flowering as the plant goes dormant. This is normal in dry heat; keep it moist and growth returns the next spring.
Why is my caltha palustris powdery mildew?
White coating on leaves in dry or crowded conditions. Improve airflow and keep the rootzone consistently wet to reduce stress.
Why is my caltha palustris poor flowering?
Usually too much shade or soil that dries out. Move to a sunnier, reliably wet spot for the best display of golden cups.
Why is my caltha palustris drying out?
As a true bog plant it wilts fast in dry soil. Maintain saturated ground or a shallow water margin at all times.