Troubleshooting
Heuchera 'Mocha' problems — and how to fix them
Heuchera 'Mocha' (Heuchera 'Mocha') 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.
Crown rot
The primary cause of loss in Heuchera; planting in free-draining soil with the crown at soil level is the most effective prevention.
Vine weevil larvae
White root-feeding grubs cause sudden wilting; inspect roots if the plant collapses unexpectedly and treat with nematodes at planting time as a preventive.
Powdery mildew
White powdery coating on foliage in warm, dry spells; improve spacing and treat with a dilute sulphur or potassium bicarbonate spray.
Root rot in containers
Pot-grown specimens are particularly at risk if containers lack drainage holes or are left standing in water; always use pots with drainage.
Frost heave
Shallow root system can be lifted by repeated freeze-thaw; firm down after winter thaws and mulch around but not over the crown.
Prevent heuchera 'mocha' problems before they start
Most heuchera 'mocha' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Heuchera 'Mocha' problems — FAQ
Why is my heuchera 'mocha' crown rot?
The primary cause of loss in Heuchera; planting in free-draining soil with the crown at soil level is the most effective prevention.
Why is my heuchera 'mocha' vine weevil larvae?
White root-feeding grubs cause sudden wilting; inspect roots if the plant collapses unexpectedly and treat with nematodes at planting time as a preventive.
Why is my heuchera 'mocha' powdery mildew?
White powdery coating on foliage in warm, dry spells; improve spacing and treat with a dilute sulphur or potassium bicarbonate spray.
Why is my heuchera 'mocha' root rot in containers?
Pot-grown specimens are particularly at risk if containers lack drainage holes or are left standing in water; always use pots with drainage.
Why is my heuchera 'mocha' frost heave?
Shallow root system can be lifted by repeated freeze-thaw; firm down after winter thaws and mulch around but not over the crown.