Troubleshooting
Angel's Tears Daffodil problems — and how to fix them
Angel's Tears Daffodil (Narcissus triandrus) 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.
Narcissus bulb fly (Merodon equestris)
The larva of this hoverfly bores into bulbs and hollows them out; inspect bulbs at lifting and destroy any that feel soft; covering emerging foliage with fleece in spring deters egg-laying adults.
Basal rot (Fusarium oxysporum)
A common fungal disease that causes the basal plate of the bulb to turn brown and collapse; buy certified disease-free stock, avoid waterlogged soil, and do not replant in the same spot for several years after an outbreak.
Prevent angel's tears daffodil problems before they start
Most angel's tears daffodil issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Angel's Tears Daffodil problems — FAQ
Why is my angel's tears daffodil narcissus bulb fly (merodon equestris)?
The larva of this hoverfly bores into bulbs and hollows them out; inspect bulbs at lifting and destroy any that feel soft; covering emerging foliage with fleece in spring deters egg-laying adults.
Why is my angel's tears daffodil basal rot (fusarium oxysporum)?
A common fungal disease that causes the basal plate of the bulb to turn brown and collapse; buy certified disease-free stock, avoid waterlogged soil, and do not replant in the same spot for several years after an outbreak.