Troubleshooting
Cusick's Camas problems — and how to fix them
Cusick's Camas (Camassia cusickii) 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 in waterlogged ground
Despite its preference for moist conditions, prolonged waterlogging in heavy clay kills the bulbs; improve drainage with organic matter or plant on a slight slope where water does not pool.
Lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii) damage
The bright red lily beetle and its larvae have been recorded feeding on Camassia foliage in the UK; check plants regularly from March and remove adults and larvae by hand, or use pyrethrum-based spray as a last resort.
Prevent cusick's camas problems before they start
Most cusick's camas issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Cusick's Camas problems — FAQ
Why is my cusick's camas bulb rot in waterlogged ground?
Despite its preference for moist conditions, prolonged waterlogging in heavy clay kills the bulbs; improve drainage with organic matter or plant on a slight slope where water does not pool.
Why is my cusick's camas lily beetle (lilioceris lilii) damage?
The bright red lily beetle and its larvae have been recorded feeding on Camassia foliage in the UK; check plants regularly from March and remove adults and larvae by hand, or use pyrethrum-based spray as a last resort.