Troubleshooting
Allium 'Mount Everest' problems — and how to fix them
Allium 'Mount Everest' (Allium stipitatum 'Mount Everest') 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.
Bulb rot in wet soil
Large bulbs rot readily in cold, waterlogged or summer-wet ground. Provide sharp drainage, plant on grit, and keep the soil dry during summer dormancy.
Fading foliage at bloom time
The basal leaves yellow and slump as the flowers open, looking scruffy at the plant's base. Position behind perennials or grasses that conceal the dying leaves.
Wind damage to tall stems
At over a metre, the stems can snap or lean in exposed sites. Plant in a sheltered spot among supportive neighbouring plants, or stake on windy gardens.
Allium leaf miner
Mining larvae distort the foliage and open the way for secondary rots. Cover emerging growth with fine mesh during the pest's adult flight periods where it is present.
Prevent allium 'mount everest' problems before they start
Most allium 'mount everest' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for allium 'mount everest' in general rather than its problems? Read the full allium 'mount everest' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Allium 'Mount Everest' problems — FAQ
Why is my allium 'mount everest' bulb rot in wet soil?
Large bulbs rot readily in cold, waterlogged or summer-wet ground. Provide sharp drainage, plant on grit, and keep the soil dry during summer dormancy.
Why is my allium 'mount everest' fading foliage at bloom time?
The basal leaves yellow and slump as the flowers open, looking scruffy at the plant's base. Position behind perennials or grasses that conceal the dying leaves.
Why is my allium 'mount everest' wind damage to tall stems?
At over a metre, the stems can snap or lean in exposed sites. Plant in a sheltered spot among supportive neighbouring plants, or stake on windy gardens.
Why is my allium 'mount everest' allium leaf miner?
Mining larvae distort the foliage and open the way for secondary rots. Cover emerging growth with fine mesh during the pest's adult flight periods where it is present.