Troubleshooting
The Blues Little Bluestem problems — and how to fix them
The Blues Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues') 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.
Loss of blue colour in rich soils
The defining steely-blue foliage colour is diminished or lost entirely when the plant is grown in fertile, amended, or moist soils. The cultivar's blue character is only fully expressed in lean, well-drained, infertile conditions. Soil amendment is the most common mistake made with this cultivar.
Rust (Puccinia spp.)
Orange-rust pustules on leaf blades may appear in humid summers. Usually cosmetic. Cut plants hard in late winter to remove infected material. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead irrigation reduces incidence.
Reversion to species habit in heavy soils
In clay-heavy or very fertile conditions, 'The Blues' loses its compact, upright silhouette and floppy growth makes it indistinguishable from the straight species. Sharp drainage is a non-negotiable requirement for this cultivar.
Prevent the blues little bluestem problems before they start
Most the blues little bluestem issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common little bluestem problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- Common the blues little bluestem problems — our other guide for the same plant
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- The Blues Little Bluestem watering schedule
- The Blues Little Bluestem light requirements
- Best soil mix for the blues little bluestem
- The Blues Little Bluestem temperature & humidity
- Full the blues little bluestem care guide
Looking for the blues little bluestem in general rather than its problems? Read the full the blues little bluestem care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
The Blues Little Bluestem problems — FAQ
Why is my the blues little bluestem loss of blue colour in rich soils?
The defining steely-blue foliage colour is diminished or lost entirely when the plant is grown in fertile, amended, or moist soils. The cultivar's blue character is only fully expressed in lean, well-drained, infertile conditions. Soil amendment is the most common mistake made with this cultivar.
Why is my the blues little bluestem rust (puccinia spp.)?
Orange-rust pustules on leaf blades may appear in humid summers. Usually cosmetic. Cut plants hard in late winter to remove infected material. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead irrigation reduces incidence.
Why is my the blues little bluestem reversion to species habit in heavy soils?
In clay-heavy or very fertile conditions, 'The Blues' loses its compact, upright silhouette and floppy growth makes it indistinguishable from the straight species. Sharp drainage is a non-negotiable requirement for this cultivar.