Troubleshooting
Spreading Selaginella problems — and how to fix them
Spreading Selaginella (Selaginella pallescens) 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.
Browning fronds from dry air
The most common complaint. Raise humidity immediately using a terrarium, humidifier, or daily misting.
Overwatering and crown rot
Waterlogged soil leads to root and crown rot. Ensure good drainage and avoid wetting the growing crown directly.
Etiolated, leggy growth
Caused by insufficient light. Move to a position with slightly brighter indirect light.
Fungus gnats
Attracted to perpetually wet soil. Improve drainage slightly and use a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis.
Prevent spreading selaginella problems before they start
Most spreading selaginella issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Spreading Selaginella problems — FAQ
Why is my spreading selaginella browning fronds from dry air?
The most common complaint. Raise humidity immediately using a terrarium, humidifier, or daily misting.
Why is my spreading selaginella overwatering and crown rot?
Waterlogged soil leads to root and crown rot. Ensure good drainage and avoid wetting the growing crown directly.
Why is my spreading selaginella etiolated, leggy growth?
Caused by insufficient light. Move to a position with slightly brighter indirect light.
Why is my spreading selaginella fungus gnats?
Attracted to perpetually wet soil. Improve drainage slightly and use a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis.