Troubleshooting
Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' problems — and how to fix them
Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' (Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer') 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.
Spreads aggressively
Corms multiply fast and can outgrow their space or naturalise; lift and divide regularly and contain it where vigour is unwanted.
Few flowers in shade or congestion
Overcrowded clumps and too little sun produce leaves but few spikes; divide every two to three years and give full sun.
Spider mites in hot, dry conditions
Drought stress invites spider mites that stipple and bronze the foliage; keep plants watered and hose down the leaves.
Winter losses in cold, wet ground
Though one of the hardiest crocosmias, corms can rot in waterlogged winter soil; mulch in cold areas and ensure drainage.
Prevent crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' problems before they start
Most crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' watering schedule
- Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' light requirements
- Best soil mix for crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer'
- Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' temperature & humidity
- Full crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' care guide
Looking for crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' in general rather than its problems? Read the full crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' problems — FAQ
Why is my crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' spreads aggressively?
Corms multiply fast and can outgrow their space or naturalise; lift and divide regularly and contain it where vigour is unwanted.
Why is my crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' few flowers in shade or congestion?
Overcrowded clumps and too little sun produce leaves but few spikes; divide every two to three years and give full sun.
Why is my crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' spider mites in hot, dry conditions?
Drought stress invites spider mites that stipple and bronze the foliage; keep plants watered and hose down the leaves.
Why is my crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'lucifer' winter losses in cold, wet ground?
Though one of the hardiest crocosmias, corms can rot in waterlogged winter soil; mulch in cold areas and ensure drainage.