Troubleshooting
Point Reyes bearberry problems — and how to fix them
Point Reyes bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Point Reyes') 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 from poor drainage or overwatering
The most common cause of decline. Established plants should receive little to no summer irrigation. Plant in sharply drained, lean soils and avoid watering once establishment is complete (after 2 seasons).
Leaf galls (Arctostaphylos leaf gall midge)
Swollen, distorted leaf galls may appear on new growth caused by gall midges. Remove and destroy affected foliage. Heavy infestations are uncommon and generally do not threaten plant health.
Slow establishment and transplant stress
Bearberry dislikes root disturbance and is slow to establish. Plant from containers in autumn or early spring; avoid bare-root transplanting. Do not fertilise heavily in the first year.
Prevent point reyes bearberry problems before they start
Most point reyes bearberry issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Point Reyes bearberry problems — FAQ
Why is my point reyes bearberry root rot from poor drainage or overwatering?
The most common cause of decline. Established plants should receive little to no summer irrigation. Plant in sharply drained, lean soils and avoid watering once establishment is complete (after 2 seasons).
Why is my point reyes bearberry leaf galls (arctostaphylos leaf gall midge)?
Swollen, distorted leaf galls may appear on new growth caused by gall midges. Remove and destroy affected foliage. Heavy infestations are uncommon and generally do not threaten plant health.
Why is my point reyes bearberry slow establishment and transplant stress?
Bearberry dislikes root disturbance and is slow to establish. Plant from containers in autumn or early spring; avoid bare-root transplanting. Do not fertilise heavily in the first year.