Troubleshooting
Echinacea 'Green Envy' problems — and how to fix them
Echinacea 'Green Envy' (Echinacea purpurea 'Green Envy') 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.
Aster yellows (phytoplasma)
Causes distorted, greenish flowers and abnormal growth. Remove and destroy affected plants; there is no cure.
Powdery mildew
White coating on lower leaves in dry, warm conditions. Remove affected leaves; improve airflow.
Vine weevil
Larvae eat roots of container-grown plants. Treat with nematodes in late summer.
Aphids
Common on new growth in spring; treat with insecticidal soap.
Crown rot
Caused by poorly drained soil in winter. Ensure excellent drainage around the crown.
Prevent echinacea 'green envy' problems before they start
Most echinacea 'green envy' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Echinacea 'Green Envy' problems — FAQ
Why is my echinacea 'green envy' aster yellows (phytoplasma)?
Causes distorted, greenish flowers and abnormal growth. Remove and destroy affected plants; there is no cure.
Why is my echinacea 'green envy' powdery mildew?
White coating on lower leaves in dry, warm conditions. Remove affected leaves; improve airflow.
Why is my echinacea 'green envy' vine weevil?
Larvae eat roots of container-grown plants. Treat with nematodes in late summer.
Why is my echinacea 'green envy' aphids?
Common on new growth in spring; treat with insecticidal soap.
Why is my echinacea 'green envy' crown rot?
Caused by poorly drained soil in winter. Ensure excellent drainage around the crown.