Troubleshooting
Borchers' Schwantesia problems — and how to fix them
Borchers' Schwantesia (Schwantesia borcherdsii) 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 overwatering
Watering during the summer dormancy causes root rot. Keep almost completely dry from late spring to early autumn.
Failure to flower
Caused by insufficient winter light or absence of a dry summer rest. Ensure a proper dormancy and maximum direct sun in autumn and winter.
Scale insects
Flat, waxy scale can attach to stems and leaves. Remove manually and treat with horticultural oil.
Leaf tip browning
Can result from very hard tap water; switch to rainwater or filtered water if this is persistent.
Prevent borchers' schwantesia problems before they start
Most borchers' schwantesia issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Borchers' Schwantesia problems — FAQ
Why is my borchers' schwantesia summer overwatering?
Watering during the summer dormancy causes root rot. Keep almost completely dry from late spring to early autumn.
Why is my borchers' schwantesia failure to flower?
Caused by insufficient winter light or absence of a dry summer rest. Ensure a proper dormancy and maximum direct sun in autumn and winter.
Why is my borchers' schwantesia scale insects?
Flat, waxy scale can attach to stems and leaves. Remove manually and treat with horticultural oil.
Why is my borchers' schwantesia leaf tip browning?
Can result from very hard tap water; switch to rainwater or filtered water if this is persistent.