Troubleshooting
Sempervivum 'Commander Hay' problems — and how to fix them
Sempervivum 'Commander Hay' (Sempervivum 'Commander Hay') 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.
Crown and root rot
The chief killer, from overwatering or heavy soil. Plant in a gritty, fast-draining mix, water only when fully dry, and keep nearly dry through winter.
Colour fading to green
The red-bronze tone needs full sun and cool, lean conditions. In shade or with feeding the large rosettes green over; boost light and cut back fertiliser to restore the colouring.
Etiolation
Insufficient light stretches and pales even this large cultivar. Move to the brightest spot or supplement with a grow light to keep the rosettes broad and flat.
Mealybugs and vine weevil
Mealybugs shelter between leaves and weevil grubs damage roots. Inspect the crown and rootball, treat with diluted alcohol or a suitable systemic, and maintain airflow.
Prevent sempervivum 'commander hay' problems before they start
Most sempervivum 'commander hay' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for sempervivum 'commander hay' in general rather than its problems? Read the full sempervivum 'commander hay' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Sempervivum 'Commander Hay' problems — FAQ
Why is my sempervivum 'commander hay' crown and root rot?
The chief killer, from overwatering or heavy soil. Plant in a gritty, fast-draining mix, water only when fully dry, and keep nearly dry through winter.
Why is my sempervivum 'commander hay' colour fading to green?
The red-bronze tone needs full sun and cool, lean conditions. In shade or with feeding the large rosettes green over; boost light and cut back fertiliser to restore the colouring.
Why is my sempervivum 'commander hay' etiolation?
Insufficient light stretches and pales even this large cultivar. Move to the brightest spot or supplement with a grow light to keep the rosettes broad and flat.
Why is my sempervivum 'commander hay' mealybugs and vine weevil?
Mealybugs shelter between leaves and weevil grubs damage roots. Inspect the crown and rootball, treat with diluted alcohol or a suitable systemic, and maintain airflow.