Troubleshooting
Naples Cotton Lavender problems — and how to fix them
Naples Cotton Lavender (Santolina neapolitana) is generally low-drama, 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 poorly drained soil
The primary killer in UK and northern US gardens; amend heavy clay with sharp grit before planting or grow in raised gravel beds to replicate the free-draining limestone soils of its native Campania.
Leggy, open habit in middle age
Plants that are not pruned annually develop a gappy, woody centre; trim back hard in early spring before growth begins and deadhead or lightly shear after flowering in summer.
Prevent naples cotton lavender problems before they start
Most naples cotton lavender issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Naples Cotton Lavender problems — FAQ
Why is my naples cotton lavender root rot in poorly drained soil?
The primary killer in UK and northern US gardens; amend heavy clay with sharp grit before planting or grow in raised gravel beds to replicate the free-draining limestone soils of its native Campania.
Why is my naples cotton lavender leggy, open habit in middle age?
Plants that are not pruned annually develop a gappy, woody centre; trim back hard in early spring before growth begins and deadhead or lightly shear after flowering in summer.