Troubleshooting
White Young's Barrenwort problems — and how to fix them
White Young's Barrenwort (Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum') 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.
Flowers obscured by overwintered foliage
Even the semi-deciduous leaves of 'Niveum' can obscure delicate spring flowers if not removed. Cut all foliage to within 5 cm of the ground in late February to early March before flower buds open.
Summer moisture stress
Unlike tougher Epimediums, 'Niveum' may wilt and show leaf browning in very dry summers, especially in exposed positions. Apply a thick organic mulch and water during prolonged dry spells to prevent stress.
Slug damage on new spring shoots
The tender new spring growth emerging after the winter cut-back is attractive to slugs. Apply iron phosphate pellets or a grit barrier around plants in early spring when shoots first emerge.
Prevent white young's barrenwort problems before they start
Most white young's barrenwort issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
White Young's Barrenwort problems — FAQ
Why is my white young's barrenwort flowers obscured by overwintered foliage?
Even the semi-deciduous leaves of 'Niveum' can obscure delicate spring flowers if not removed. Cut all foliage to within 5 cm of the ground in late February to early March before flower buds open.
Why is my white young's barrenwort summer moisture stress?
Unlike tougher Epimediums, 'Niveum' may wilt and show leaf browning in very dry summers, especially in exposed positions. Apply a thick organic mulch and water during prolonged dry spells to prevent stress.
Why is my white young's barrenwort slug damage on new spring shoots?
The tender new spring growth emerging after the winter cut-back is attractive to slugs. Apply iron phosphate pellets or a grit barrier around plants in early spring when shoots first emerge.