Troubleshooting
Hairy Rock Jasmine problems — and how to fix them
Hairy Rock Jasmine (Androsace villosa) 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.
Fungal rot in wet winters
Moisture trapped between hairy rosettes in cold, wet winters leads to botrytis or bacterial crown rot. Apply a coarse grit collar under the cushion, improve drainage, and consider protection with a glass or perspex pane that sheds rain while allowing airflow.
Aphids on spring growth
Greenfly can colonise new spring shoots and flower stems. Treat with insecticidal soap or a light jet of water; monitor closely as infestations on small cushion plants can stress the whole plant quickly.
Compacted, sluggish growth in heavy soil
Planted in clay or moisture-retentive soil, the cushion becomes congested and stops expanding. Lift and replant into a properly prepared scree or gritty alpine mix; the root system typically reveals few viable roots when grown in unsuitable conditions.
Prevent hairy rock jasmine problems before they start
Most hairy rock jasmine issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hairy Rock Jasmine problems — FAQ
Why is my hairy rock jasmine fungal rot in wet winters?
Moisture trapped between hairy rosettes in cold, wet winters leads to botrytis or bacterial crown rot. Apply a coarse grit collar under the cushion, improve drainage, and consider protection with a glass or perspex pane that sheds rain while allowing airflow.
Why is my hairy rock jasmine aphids on spring growth?
Greenfly can colonise new spring shoots and flower stems. Treat with insecticidal soap or a light jet of water; monitor closely as infestations on small cushion plants can stress the whole plant quickly.
Why is my hairy rock jasmine compacted, sluggish growth in heavy soil?
Planted in clay or moisture-retentive soil, the cushion becomes congested and stops expanding. Lift and replant into a properly prepared scree or gritty alpine mix; the root system typically reveals few viable roots when grown in unsuitable conditions.