Troubleshooting
Spiraea 'Little Princess' problems — and how to fix them
Spiraea 'Little Princess' (Spiraea japonica 'Little Princess') 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.
Powdery mildew
Most common in late summer under dry-root or overcrowded conditions. Water consistently and improve air circulation around the plant.
Aphids
Soft shoot tips in spring attract aphids. A jet of water or insecticidal soap at first sign keeps populations in check.
Poor compact habit in shade
Shade causes the plant to stretch and open up, losing its characteristic neat mounded form. Relocate to full sun.
Reduced flowering after late pruning
Although a summer bloomer on new wood, prune in early spring — never late summer or autumn — to allow maximum growth for flowering by midsummer.
Prevent spiraea 'little princess' problems before they start
Most spiraea 'little princess' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Spiraea 'Little Princess' problems — FAQ
Why is my spiraea 'little princess' powdery mildew?
Most common in late summer under dry-root or overcrowded conditions. Water consistently and improve air circulation around the plant.
Why is my spiraea 'little princess' aphids?
Soft shoot tips in spring attract aphids. A jet of water or insecticidal soap at first sign keeps populations in check.
Why is my spiraea 'little princess' poor compact habit in shade?
Shade causes the plant to stretch and open up, losing its characteristic neat mounded form. Relocate to full sun.
Why is my spiraea 'little princess' reduced flowering after late pruning?
Although a summer bloomer on new wood, prune in early spring — never late summer or autumn — to allow maximum growth for flowering by midsummer.