Troubleshooting
African Cornflag problems — and how to fix them
African Cornflag (Chasmanthe aethiopica) 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.
Corm rot from summer moisture
The leading cause of failure — corms sitting in moist soil during summer dormancy will rot rapidly. Lift corms after foliage dies down, store in a cool dry place in paper bags, and replant in autumn; or grow in pots that can be moved under cover.
Aphids on flower spikes
Aphid colonies congregate on emerging flower stems in late winter, weakening growth and disfiguring blooms. Inspect from midwinter onwards and treat with insecticidal soap spray or neem oil at the first sign of infestation.
Prevent african cornflag problems before they start
Most african cornflag issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
African Cornflag problems — FAQ
Why is my african cornflag corm rot from summer moisture?
The leading cause of failure — corms sitting in moist soil during summer dormancy will rot rapidly. Lift corms after foliage dies down, store in a cool dry place in paper bags, and replant in autumn; or grow in pots that can be moved under cover.
Why is my african cornflag aphids on flower spikes?
Aphid colonies congregate on emerging flower stems in late winter, weakening growth and disfiguring blooms. Inspect from midwinter onwards and treat with insecticidal soap spray or neem oil at the first sign of infestation.