Troubleshooting
Winter Heath Springwood White problems — and how to fix them
Winter Heath Springwood White (Erica carnea f. alba 'Springwood White') is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Phytophthora root rot
The most serious threat; caused by waterlogged or poorly draining soil. Affected plants wilt, foliage turns grey-green then brown, and roots are black and rotten. Remove and destroy affected plants; improve drainage before replanting.
Heather beetle (Lochmaea suturalis)
Larvae feed on foliage, causing localised browning and defoliation in summer. Check undersides of stems for small brown beetle larvae; affected patches can be cut back hard after damage to encourage regrowth.
Prevent winter heath springwood white problems before they start
Most winter heath springwood white issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Winter Heath Springwood White problems — FAQ
Why is my winter heath springwood white phytophthora root rot?
The most serious threat; caused by waterlogged or poorly draining soil. Affected plants wilt, foliage turns grey-green then brown, and roots are black and rotten. Remove and destroy affected plants; improve drainage before replanting.
Why is my winter heath springwood white heather beetle (lochmaea suturalis)?
Larvae feed on foliage, causing localised browning and defoliation in summer. Check undersides of stems for small brown beetle larvae; affected patches can be cut back hard after damage to encourage regrowth.