Troubleshooting
Gold Dust Alyssum problems — and how to fix them
Gold Dust Alyssum (Aurinia saxatilis) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Crown rot in wet or clay soils
The most common cause of plant death — the crown rots from the base if drainage is poor; grow in raised beds, walls, or rock gardens and never allow water to pool around the stems.
Post-flowering collapse if not sheared
Without cutting the plant back by one-third immediately after flowering, Aurinia saxatilis becomes woody, open, and short-lived; shear to just below the old flower stems each summer to promote fresh growth.
Prevent gold dust alyssum problems before they start
Most gold dust alyssum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Gold Dust Alyssum problems — FAQ
Why is my gold dust alyssum crown rot in wet or clay soils?
The most common cause of plant death — the crown rots from the base if drainage is poor; grow in raised beds, walls, or rock gardens and never allow water to pool around the stems.
Why is my gold dust alyssum post-flowering collapse if not sheared?
Without cutting the plant back by one-third immediately after flowering, Aurinia saxatilis becomes woody, open, and short-lived; shear to just below the old flower stems each summer to promote fresh growth.