Troubleshooting
Alpine Squill problems — and how to fix them
Alpine Squill (Scilla bifolia) 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.
Bulb rot
Occurs when bulbs sit in waterlogged soil during dormancy; plant in well-drained positions and avoid heavy clay soils without amendment.
Rodent predation
Squirrels and mice will dig up and eat the small bulbs; protect newly planted areas with wire mesh cloches or interplant with daffodils, which rodents avoid.
Prevent alpine squill problems before they start
Most alpine squill issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Alpine Squill problems — FAQ
Why is my alpine squill bulb rot?
Occurs when bulbs sit in waterlogged soil during dormancy; plant in well-drained positions and avoid heavy clay soils without amendment.
Why is my alpine squill rodent predation?
Squirrels and mice will dig up and eat the small bulbs; protect newly planted areas with wire mesh cloches or interplant with daffodils, which rodents avoid.