Troubleshooting
Moss Campion problems — and how to fix them
Moss Campion (Silene acaulis) 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.
Cushion rot (Botrytis / Phytophthora)
The primary cause of death in cultivation. Excessive moisture in the cushion, especially in warm wet winters, triggers fungal or oomycete rot. Ensure absolutely perfect drainage and protect from overhead rain in winter with a sheet of glass or perspex.
Very slow establishment / failure to thrive
Moss Campion grows just a few millimetres per year; it can take 5–10 years to form a flowering-sized cushion. Poor drainage or heat stress will set it back or kill it. In lowland gardens, the alpine house is most reliable.
Aphids on flower stems
Spring flower stalks can attract aphids. Remove manually or spot-treat with insecticidal soap. Avoid systemic pesticides that may damage the slow-growing cushion tissue.
Prevent moss campion problems before they start
Most moss campion issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Moss Campion problems — FAQ
Why is my moss campion cushion rot (botrytis / phytophthora)?
The primary cause of death in cultivation. Excessive moisture in the cushion, especially in warm wet winters, triggers fungal or oomycete rot. Ensure absolutely perfect drainage and protect from overhead rain in winter with a sheet of glass or perspex.
Why is my moss campion very slow establishment / failure to thrive?
Moss Campion grows just a few millimetres per year; it can take 5–10 years to form a flowering-sized cushion. Poor drainage or heat stress will set it back or kill it. In lowland gardens, the alpine house is most reliable.
Why is my moss campion aphids on flower stems?
Spring flower stalks can attract aphids. Remove manually or spot-treat with insecticidal soap. Avoid systemic pesticides that may damage the slow-growing cushion tissue.