Troubleshooting
Many-haired Draba problems — and how to fix them
Many-haired Draba (Draba polytricha) 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.
Matted hair rot
Stellate hairs mat when wet, trapping moisture against the leaves and leading to fungal rot spreading through the cushion. Overhead rain protection in an alpine house is the best prevention; avoid any overhead watering at all times.
Cushion die-back after stress
The plant can collapse suddenly after a wet period, heavy frost, or root disturbance. Act quickly: cut away dead portions, dust with sulphur, and replant healthy sections in fresh, dry gritty compost.
Poor establishment after repotting
Draba polytricha resents root disturbance. Repot only when essential, in early spring before growth begins, keeping root ball intact and disturbance minimal. Ensure the fresh compost is very gritty and free-draining.
Prevent many-haired draba problems before they start
Most many-haired draba issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Many-haired Draba problems — FAQ
Why is my many-haired draba matted hair rot?
Stellate hairs mat when wet, trapping moisture against the leaves and leading to fungal rot spreading through the cushion. Overhead rain protection in an alpine house is the best prevention; avoid any overhead watering at all times.
Why is my many-haired draba cushion die-back after stress?
The plant can collapse suddenly after a wet period, heavy frost, or root disturbance. Act quickly: cut away dead portions, dust with sulphur, and replant healthy sections in fresh, dry gritty compost.
Why is my many-haired draba poor establishment after repotting?
Draba polytricha resents root disturbance. Repot only when essential, in early spring before growth begins, keeping root ball intact and disturbance minimal. Ensure the fresh compost is very gritty and free-draining.