Troubleshooting
Tree heath problems — and how to fix them
Tree heath (Erica arborea) 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.
Frost damage to young growth
Although hardy to around -10°C, new growth emerging in late winter can be blackened by hard late frosts. Site in a sheltered position; avoid frost pockets. In cold inland areas, protect young plants with horticultural fleece during hard frosts.
Phytophthora root rot
Rapid dieback and plant death in waterlogged or heavy clay soil, particularly in wet winters. Ensure excellent soil drainage; plant on a raised mound if necessary. No treatment once infected — remove plant and improve drainage.
Leggy growth without pruning
Can become very open and ungainly if not pruned. Trim lightly after flowering in late spring to maintain shape and encourage bushy regrowth. Erica arborea tolerates harder pruning than most heathers but avoid cutting back into very old, bare wood.
Prevent tree heath problems before they start
Most tree heath issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Tree heath problems — FAQ
Why is my tree heath frost damage to young growth?
Although hardy to around -10°C, new growth emerging in late winter can be blackened by hard late frosts. Site in a sheltered position; avoid frost pockets. In cold inland areas, protect young plants with horticultural fleece during hard frosts.
Why is my tree heath phytophthora root rot?
Rapid dieback and plant death in waterlogged or heavy clay soil, particularly in wet winters. Ensure excellent soil drainage; plant on a raised mound if necessary. No treatment once infected — remove plant and improve drainage.
Why is my tree heath leggy growth without pruning?
Can become very open and ungainly if not pruned. Trim lightly after flowering in late spring to maintain shape and encourage bushy regrowth. Erica arborea tolerates harder pruning than most heathers but avoid cutting back into very old, bare wood.