Troubleshooting
Prince's feather problems — and how to fix them
Prince's feather (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) 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.
Stem lodging in wind
Very tall plants can topple in exposed, windy gardens — stake with sturdy canes from mid-growth, or shelter plants from prevailing winds; avoid excess nitrogen which weakens stems.
Cercospora leaf spot
Circular tan spots with purple margins caused by Cercospora fungi can develop in warm, wet summers — improve plant spacing for airflow, avoid overhead watering and remove affected leaves promptly.
Thrips on plumes
Thrips can distort and silver the dense flower plumes in hot, dry conditions — apply an appropriate insecticide or introduce predatory mites; avoid dusty, dry conditions which favour thrips populations.
Prevent prince's feather problems before they start
Most prince's feather issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for prince's feather in general rather than its problems? Read the full prince's feather care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Prince's feather problems — FAQ
Why is my prince's feather stem lodging in wind?
Very tall plants can topple in exposed, windy gardens — stake with sturdy canes from mid-growth, or shelter plants from prevailing winds; avoid excess nitrogen which weakens stems.
Why is my prince's feather cercospora leaf spot?
Circular tan spots with purple margins caused by Cercospora fungi can develop in warm, wet summers — improve plant spacing for airflow, avoid overhead watering and remove affected leaves promptly.
Why is my prince's feather thrips on plumes?
Thrips can distort and silver the dense flower plumes in hot, dry conditions — apply an appropriate insecticide or introduce predatory mites; avoid dusty, dry conditions which favour thrips populations.