Troubleshooting
Brunthal's Ice Plant problems — and how to fix them
Brunthal's Ice Plant (Delosperma brunnthaleri) 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.
Root rot in wet winters
Plants in poorly draining soil or pots are susceptible to winter rot. Improve drainage and reduce watering significantly in cold months.
Sparse flowering
Usually caused by insufficient direct sun. Relocate to a sunnier spot.
Mealybugs
Check in leaf axils and beneath mat growth. Treat with neem oil or isopropyl alcohol.
Die-back in severe frost
Although hardier than many Delosperma, protect from prolonged hard frost below -5°C with fleece or by bringing pots indoors.
Bare centre of mat
Older mats can die in the centre; cut back and replant vigorous rooted sections in fresh compost.
Prevent brunthal's ice plant problems before they start
Most brunthal's ice plant issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Brunthal's Ice Plant problems — FAQ
Why is my brunthal's ice plant root rot in wet winters?
Plants in poorly draining soil or pots are susceptible to winter rot. Improve drainage and reduce watering significantly in cold months.
Why is my brunthal's ice plant sparse flowering?
Usually caused by insufficient direct sun. Relocate to a sunnier spot.
Why is my brunthal's ice plant mealybugs?
Check in leaf axils and beneath mat growth. Treat with neem oil or isopropyl alcohol.
Why is my brunthal's ice plant die-back in severe frost?
Although hardier than many Delosperma, protect from prolonged hard frost below -5°C with fleece or by bringing pots indoors.
Why is my brunthal's ice plant bare centre of mat?
Older mats can die in the centre; cut back and replant vigorous rooted sections in fresh compost.