Troubleshooting
Myretoun Ruby winter heath problems — and how to fix them
Myretoun Ruby winter heath (Erica carnea 'Myretoun Ruby') 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 (Phytophthora)
Waterlogged soil is the primary cause of failure. Plant in freely draining soil or a raised bed. Affected plants show sudden wilting and browning; remove them promptly and do not replant heathers in the same spot.
Fading flower colour
The colour development from rose-pink to deep ruby is a characteristic of this cultivar and not a problem, but plants in shade show less vivid hues. Ensure full sun exposure for the most dramatic colour transition.
Dieback from lack of pruning
Without annual post-flowering trimming in April–May, the plant becomes straggly and woody. Trim flowered shoots back to the base of the spike each spring; never cut into old, leafless wood as it will not reshoot.
Prevent myretoun ruby winter heath problems before they start
Most myretoun ruby winter heath issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Myretoun Ruby winter heath problems — FAQ
Why is my myretoun ruby winter heath root rot (phytophthora)?
Waterlogged soil is the primary cause of failure. Plant in freely draining soil or a raised bed. Affected plants show sudden wilting and browning; remove them promptly and do not replant heathers in the same spot.
Why is my myretoun ruby winter heath fading flower colour?
The colour development from rose-pink to deep ruby is a characteristic of this cultivar and not a problem, but plants in shade show less vivid hues. Ensure full sun exposure for the most dramatic colour transition.
Why is my myretoun ruby winter heath dieback from lack of pruning?
Without annual post-flowering trimming in April–May, the plant becomes straggly and woody. Trim flowered shoots back to the base of the spike each spring; never cut into old, leafless wood as it will not reshoot.