Troubleshooting
Blunt Greenhood problems — and how to fix them
Blunt Greenhood (Pterostylis curta) 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.
Tuber rot in summer
Watering during summer dormancy quickly rots the tuber. Keep completely dry from late spring until new growth appears in autumn.
Slug and snail damage
Tender emerging leaves in autumn are very attractive to slugs. Use physical barriers or organic pellets around pots.
Fungus gnats
Moist woodland mix can attract fungus gnat larvae. Let the top centimetre dry slightly and use yellow sticky traps.
Failure to re-emerge
Tubers need a warm dry summer to properly rest and regenerate. Store dry and warm (not above 30°C) through summer.
Aphids
Soft emerging shoots in autumn may attract aphids. Treat with insecticidal soap or a targeted spray.
Prevent blunt greenhood problems before they start
Most blunt greenhood issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Blunt Greenhood problems — FAQ
Why is my blunt greenhood tuber rot in summer?
Watering during summer dormancy quickly rots the tuber. Keep completely dry from late spring until new growth appears in autumn.
Why is my blunt greenhood slug and snail damage?
Tender emerging leaves in autumn are very attractive to slugs. Use physical barriers or organic pellets around pots.
Why is my blunt greenhood fungus gnats?
Moist woodland mix can attract fungus gnat larvae. Let the top centimetre dry slightly and use yellow sticky traps.
Why is my blunt greenhood failure to re-emerge?
Tubers need a warm dry summer to properly rest and regenerate. Store dry and warm (not above 30°C) through summer.
Why is my blunt greenhood aphids?
Soft emerging shoots in autumn may attract aphids. Treat with insecticidal soap or a targeted spray.