Troubleshooting
Common Ice Plant problems — and how to fix them
Common Ice Plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum) 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.
Root rot in wet or heavy soils
Plants collapse suddenly when roots sit in waterlogged conditions; grow in raised beds or containers with ample drainage holes and avoid heavy clay soils entirely.
Aphids on new growth
Soft new shoot tips attract aphid colonies, especially in warm, sheltered positions; knock off with a water jet or apply insecticidal soap, being careful not to wet the vesicle-covered leaves excessively.
Prevent common ice plant problems before they start
Most common ice plant issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Common Ice Plant problems — FAQ
Why is my common ice plant root rot in wet or heavy soils?
Plants collapse suddenly when roots sit in waterlogged conditions; grow in raised beds or containers with ample drainage holes and avoid heavy clay soils entirely.
Why is my common ice plant aphids on new growth?
Soft new shoot tips attract aphid colonies, especially in warm, sheltered positions; knock off with a water jet or apply insecticidal soap, being careful not to wet the vesicle-covered leaves excessively.