Sweet Alyssum’s Usual Problems
The simplicity of caring for sweet alyssum is almost unparalleled. Cool temperatures are acceptable for it. It may also flower slowly in the heat of the summer, but when the weather cools off, it blooms profusely once again. They resemble mustard and cabbage and have a vibrant, honey-like scent. In milder areas, they will self-sow and produce vibrant colors every year. Aphids will appear when the plant is stressed, but sweet alyssum is often trouble-free. In locations with warmer weather, this plant may spread uncontrollably since it doesn’t require much in the way of external support. These circumstances include high heat indices, frost or freezing temperatures, an abundance of water, inadequate drainage, poor soil, or insufficient light. Here are some problems you might encounter when growing one, according to experts in residential landscaping.
Curling Leaves and Flowers
Check for tiny cyclamen mites that siphon sap from the flower petals and leaves if you detect curled blooms and foliage. If you have a magnifying glass on hand, it can be seen with the naked eye, although they are scarcely noticeable. To rid your plant of infection, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Yellowing Leaves
Increased temperatures may be the reason for your plant’s yellowing leaves, along with transplant shock, a lack of water, or inadequate soil nutrients. A leaf is in the process of dying once it becomes yellow on a plant. One or more yellow leaves are a warning indication rather than a guarantee that the plant will perish. Find the root of the problem, then treat the escalating issue. Flowers and foliage are dead after the entire plant has started to droop. Trim back the plant and let sweet alyssum re-grow in more hospitable conditions or more temperate climates.
Wilting Flowers and Foliage
Alyssum may wilt in extremely hot weather or if it wasn’t planted in well-drained soil. Alyssum has trouble with extreme heat. Although the majority of cultivars shrivel at the height of summer, others have been bred to withstand high temperatures without withering. You can use water to temper the heat, but make sure the soil drains effectively.
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