Troubleshooting
Love-lies-bleeding problems — and how to fix them
Love-lies-bleeding (Amaranthus caudatus) 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.
Lodging (stem collapse)
In exposed, windy sites tall plants may topple — stake with bamboo canes tied loosely at stem nodes, or shelter from strong wind; avoid excess nitrogen which weakens stems.
Leaf miners
Serpentine leaf-miner larvae tunnel between leaf surfaces, creating pale wandering trails — remove and destroy affected leaves; damage is rarely severe enough to threaten plant health.
Root rot in waterlogged soil
Amaranthus is sensitive to waterlogged or poorly drained soil — always plant in free-draining soil or raised beds and avoid overwatering in cool, wet periods.
Prevent love-lies-bleeding problems before they start
Most love-lies-bleeding issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for love-lies-bleeding in general rather than its problems? Read the full love-lies-bleeding care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Love-lies-bleeding problems — FAQ
Why is my love-lies-bleeding lodging (stem collapse)?
In exposed, windy sites tall plants may topple — stake with bamboo canes tied loosely at stem nodes, or shelter from strong wind; avoid excess nitrogen which weakens stems.
Why is my love-lies-bleeding leaf miners?
Serpentine leaf-miner larvae tunnel between leaf surfaces, creating pale wandering trails — remove and destroy affected leaves; damage is rarely severe enough to threaten plant health.
Why is my love-lies-bleeding root rot in waterlogged soil?
Amaranthus is sensitive to waterlogged or poorly drained soil — always plant in free-draining soil or raised beds and avoid overwatering in cool, wet periods.