Troubleshooting
Fly Bush problems — and how to fix them
Fly Bush (Roridula gorgonias) 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.
Resin loss / non-sticky leaves
Usually caused by low humidity, insufficient light, or tap-water mineral build-up. Switch to pure rainwater or RO water, increase light, and raise humidity above 60%.
Root rot
Overwatering combined with poor drainage or stagnant tray water causes root rot on the woody rootstock. Ensure the mix drains freely and refresh the tray water regularly rather than leaving it stagnant.
Failure to thrive indoors
Roridula is notoriously difficult outside its fynbos habitat. The most common failure is mineral build-up from tap water. Use only pure water and accept that plants may grow slowly; this is a specialist species.
Prevent fly bush problems before they start
Most fly bush issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for fly bush in general rather than its problems? Read the full fly bush care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Fly Bush problems — FAQ
Why is my fly bush resin loss / non-sticky leaves?
Usually caused by low humidity, insufficient light, or tap-water mineral build-up. Switch to pure rainwater or RO water, increase light, and raise humidity above 60%.
Why is my fly bush root rot?
Overwatering combined with poor drainage or stagnant tray water causes root rot on the woody rootstock. Ensure the mix drains freely and refresh the tray water regularly rather than leaving it stagnant.
Why is my fly bush failure to thrive indoors?
Roridula is notoriously difficult outside its fynbos habitat. The most common failure is mineral build-up from tap water. Use only pure water and accept that plants may grow slowly; this is a specialist species.