Troubleshooting
Baboon Flower problems — and how to fix them
Baboon Flower (Babiana stricta) 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.
Glasshouse red spider mite (Tetranychus urticae)
The RHS identifies this as the main pest under glass; fine stippling on leaves is the first sign — increase humidity around the plant and introduce the biological control Phytoseiulus persimilis at first detection.
Corm rot during dormancy
Corms kept in damp compost after flowering quickly rot; once foliage has fully died back, allow corms to dry out completely before lifting and storing in dry sand at 5–10°C until autumn replanting.
Prevent baboon flower problems before they start
Most baboon flower issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Baboon Flower problems — FAQ
Why is my baboon flower glasshouse red spider mite (tetranychus urticae)?
The RHS identifies this as the main pest under glass; fine stippling on leaves is the first sign — increase humidity around the plant and introduce the biological control Phytoseiulus persimilis at first detection.
Why is my baboon flower corm rot during dormancy?
Corms kept in damp compost after flowering quickly rot; once foliage has fully died back, allow corms to dry out completely before lifting and storing in dry sand at 5–10°C until autumn replanting.