Troubleshooting
Cross-leaved Heath Alba Mollis problems — and how to fix them
Cross-leaved Heath Alba Mollis (Erica tetralix 'Alba Mollis') 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.
Lime chlorosis (yellowing between leaf veins)
Caused by alkaline soil or hard tap water raising pH; correct with sequestered iron and switch to rainwater or acidified irrigation water.
Phytophthora root rot
Encouraged by waterlogged, poorly drained soil even though this species likes moisture; improve drainage and avoid compacting the root zone.
Heather beetle (Lochmaea suturalis)
Larvae and adults skeletonise foliage, leaving bronzed, dead-looking patches; most prevalent in dry summers — maintain moisture and remove badly affected shoots.
Prevent cross-leaved heath alba mollis problems before they start
Most cross-leaved heath alba mollis issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Cross-leaved Heath Alba Mollis problems — FAQ
Why is my cross-leaved heath alba mollis lime chlorosis (yellowing between leaf veins)?
Caused by alkaline soil or hard tap water raising pH; correct with sequestered iron and switch to rainwater or acidified irrigation water.
Why is my cross-leaved heath alba mollis phytophthora root rot?
Encouraged by waterlogged, poorly drained soil even though this species likes moisture; improve drainage and avoid compacting the root zone.
Why is my cross-leaved heath alba mollis heather beetle (lochmaea suturalis)?
Larvae and adults skeletonise foliage, leaving bronzed, dead-looking patches; most prevalent in dry summers — maintain moisture and remove badly affected shoots.