Troubleshooting
Trailing Iceplant Vygie problems — and how to fix them
Trailing Iceplant Vygie (Lampranthus spectabilis) 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.
Root rot in winter
Trailing stems root into the potting mix and rot quickly if kept wet in winter. Reduce watering dramatically from late autumn.
Failure to flower
Insufficient sun is the most common cause. Also ensure a cool, dry winter rest, which is essential to trigger spring bud set.
Leggy, sparse growth
Trim back hard after the main spring flowering flush; this stimulates vigorous new growth and more blooms the following season.
Spider mites in dry air
Check the undersides of leaves for fine webbing in hot, dry conditions. Increase air circulation and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
Frost damage
Not frost-hardy. Move containers inside before temperatures drop below 2°C. Keep in a cool, frost-free, bright spot for winter.
Prevent trailing iceplant vygie problems before they start
Most trailing iceplant vygie issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Trailing Iceplant Vygie problems — FAQ
Why is my trailing iceplant vygie root rot in winter?
Trailing stems root into the potting mix and rot quickly if kept wet in winter. Reduce watering dramatically from late autumn.
Why is my trailing iceplant vygie failure to flower?
Insufficient sun is the most common cause. Also ensure a cool, dry winter rest, which is essential to trigger spring bud set.
Why is my trailing iceplant vygie leggy, sparse growth?
Trim back hard after the main spring flowering flush; this stimulates vigorous new growth and more blooms the following season.
Why is my trailing iceplant vygie spider mites in dry air?
Check the undersides of leaves for fine webbing in hot, dry conditions. Increase air circulation and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
Why is my trailing iceplant vygie frost damage?
Not frost-hardy. Move containers inside before temperatures drop below 2°C. Keep in a cool, frost-free, bright spot for winter.