Troubleshooting
Skyracer Moor Grass problems — and how to fix them
Skyracer Moor Grass (Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea 'Skyracer') 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.
Wind damage to tall stems
Skyracer's extraordinary height makes it susceptible to wind damage in exposed gardens. Situate behind lower plantings or near a wall for shelter. Avoid high-nitrogen fertiliser which increases stem weight.
Poor performance in alkaline soil
Yellowing foliage and stunted growth indicate alkaline soil conditions. Perform a soil pH test and acidify with elemental sulphur or plant in a large raised bed filled with lime-free, humus-rich growing medium.
Clump division resistance
Established Skyracer clumps become very tough and woody. Use two back-to-back garden forks or a pruning saw to split the crown in spring. Discard the dead central portion and replant healthy outer sections.
Prevent skyracer moor grass problems before they start
Most skyracer moor grass issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for skyracer moor grass in general rather than its problems? Read the full skyracer moor grass care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Skyracer Moor Grass problems — FAQ
Why is my skyracer moor grass wind damage to tall stems?
Skyracer's extraordinary height makes it susceptible to wind damage in exposed gardens. Situate behind lower plantings or near a wall for shelter. Avoid high-nitrogen fertiliser which increases stem weight.
Why is my skyracer moor grass poor performance in alkaline soil?
Yellowing foliage and stunted growth indicate alkaline soil conditions. Perform a soil pH test and acidify with elemental sulphur or plant in a large raised bed filled with lime-free, humus-rich growing medium.
Why is my skyracer moor grass clump division resistance?
Established Skyracer clumps become very tough and woody. Use two back-to-back garden forks or a pruning saw to split the crown in spring. Discard the dead central portion and replant healthy outer sections.