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.
Reduced flowering
Too much shade cuts bloom count. Site in full sun and deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage a lighter rebloom.
Open, woody centre
Old stems crowd and the shrub thins. Shear back by one-third to one-half in late winter/early spring to renew dense, fresh growth.
Aphids
Soft new spring growth attracts aphids. Rinse off with water or apply insecticidal soap; natural predators usually keep them in check.
Powdery mildew
White film on foliage in humid, still conditions. Improve spacing and airflow and water at the base.
Prevent spiraea 'little princess' problems before they start
Most spiraea 'little princess' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common japanese spirea problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- Common spiraea 'little princess' problems — our other guide for the same plant
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Spiraea 'Little Princess' watering schedule
- Spiraea 'Little Princess' light requirements
- Best soil mix for spiraea 'little princess'
- Spiraea 'Little Princess' temperature & humidity
- Full spiraea 'little princess' care guide
Looking for spiraea 'little princess' in general rather than its problems? Read the full spiraea 'little princess' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Spiraea 'Little Princess' problems — FAQ
Why is my spiraea 'little princess' reduced flowering?
Too much shade cuts bloom count. Site in full sun and deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage a lighter rebloom.
Why is my spiraea 'little princess' open, woody centre?
Old stems crowd and the shrub thins. Shear back by one-third to one-half in late winter/early spring to renew dense, fresh growth.
Why is my spiraea 'little princess' aphids?
Soft new spring growth attracts aphids. Rinse off with water or apply insecticidal soap; natural predators usually keep them in check.
Why is my spiraea 'little princess' powdery mildew?
White film on foliage in humid, still conditions. Improve spacing and airflow and water at the base.