Troubleshooting
Yellow Ice Plant problems — and how to fix them
Yellow Ice Plant (Delosperma nubigenum) 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.
Winter root rot
Despite its frost hardiness, it is intolerant of wet soil in winter. In heavy clay soils, plant in raised beds or improve drainage with grit.
Sparse flowering
Insufficient sun or over-rich soil reduces the spring flower display. Ensure full sun and lean soil.
Centre die-out
Old mats may die out in the centre over years. Divide and replant outer sections with fresh gritty compost.
Slugs
Can damage succulent stems and foliage, especially in wet springs. Use iron phosphate slug pellets or other barrier controls.
Frost heave in wet soil
In heavy, wet soils, freeze-thaw cycles can heave roots. Mulch lightly with grit around the crown in exposed sites.
Prevent yellow ice plant problems before they start
Most yellow ice plant issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Yellow Ice Plant problems — FAQ
Why is my yellow ice plant winter root rot?
Despite its frost hardiness, it is intolerant of wet soil in winter. In heavy clay soils, plant in raised beds or improve drainage with grit.
Why is my yellow ice plant sparse flowering?
Insufficient sun or over-rich soil reduces the spring flower display. Ensure full sun and lean soil.
Why is my yellow ice plant centre die-out?
Old mats may die out in the centre over years. Divide and replant outer sections with fresh gritty compost.
Why is my yellow ice plant slugs?
Can damage succulent stems and foliage, especially in wet springs. Use iron phosphate slug pellets or other barrier controls.
Why is my yellow ice plant frost heave in wet soil?
In heavy, wet soils, freeze-thaw cycles can heave roots. Mulch lightly with grit around the crown in exposed sites.