Troubleshooting
Common Heather problems — and how to fix them
Common Heather (Calluna vulgaris) 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.
Heather die-back (Phytophthora cinnamomi)
Causes sudden browning and death of shoots or whole plants in wet, waterlogged soils; plant in raised beds or well-drained positions and remove affected plants promptly.
Becoming bare and woody at the centre
The most common cause of failure; annual clipping in early spring — removing spent flower heads but not cutting into old brown wood — is essential to maintain dense, bushy growth.
Heather beetle (Lochmaea suturalis)
A native pest of moorland heathers; larvae feed on foliage causing bronze or brown patches; more problematic in dry conditions — maintain plant vigour and remove severely affected material.
Prevent common heather problems before they start
Most common heather issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Common Heather problems — FAQ
Why is my common heather heather die-back (phytophthora cinnamomi)?
Causes sudden browning and death of shoots or whole plants in wet, waterlogged soils; plant in raised beds or well-drained positions and remove affected plants promptly.
Why is my common heather becoming bare and woody at the centre?
The most common cause of failure; annual clipping in early spring — removing spent flower heads but not cutting into old brown wood — is essential to maintain dense, bushy growth.
Why is my common heather heather beetle (lochmaea suturalis)?
A native pest of moorland heathers; larvae feed on foliage causing bronze or brown patches; more problematic in dry conditions — maintain plant vigour and remove severely affected material.