Troubleshooting
Nodding Greenhood problems — and how to fix them
Nodding Greenhood (Pterostylis nutans) 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.
Summer tuber rot
The most common problem — watering during dormancy rots tubers rapidly. Keep completely dry from late spring to early autumn.
Heat stress
Cannot tolerate temperatures consistently above 25°C. Move to the coolest room or a cold frame in summer.
Slug damage to new growth
Emerging shoots in autumn are extremely vulnerable to slug predation. Protect immediately with physical barriers or organic pellets.
Poor reflowering
Plants that fail to re-flower after the first year are often getting too much warmth or moisture in summer, preventing proper tuber rest.
Aphids
Emerging shoots may attract aphids in autumn. Treat promptly with insecticidal soap.
Prevent nodding greenhood problems before they start
Most nodding greenhood issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Nodding Greenhood problems — FAQ
Why is my nodding greenhood summer tuber rot?
The most common problem — watering during dormancy rots tubers rapidly. Keep completely dry from late spring to early autumn.
Why is my nodding greenhood heat stress?
Cannot tolerate temperatures consistently above 25°C. Move to the coolest room or a cold frame in summer.
Why is my nodding greenhood slug damage to new growth?
Emerging shoots in autumn are extremely vulnerable to slug predation. Protect immediately with physical barriers or organic pellets.
Why is my nodding greenhood poor reflowering?
Plants that fail to re-flower after the first year are often getting too much warmth or moisture in summer, preventing proper tuber rest.
Why is my nodding greenhood aphids?
Emerging shoots may attract aphids in autumn. Treat promptly with insecticidal soap.