Troubleshooting
Early Squill problems — and how to fix them
Early Squill (Scilla mischtschenkoana) 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 from poor drainage
Bulbs sitting in wet, poorly drained soil during summer dormancy will rot; plant in elevated or sandy spots and avoid irrigating in summer.
Virus infection
Mosaic viruses can cause streaked, distorted foliage and reduced flowering. There is no cure; remove and destroy infected bulbs to prevent spread by aphids.
Prevent early squill problems before they start
Most early squill issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Early Squill problems — FAQ
Why is my early squill bulb rot from poor drainage?
Bulbs sitting in wet, poorly drained soil during summer dormancy will rot; plant in elevated or sandy spots and avoid irrigating in summer.
Why is my early squill virus infection?
Mosaic viruses can cause streaked, distorted foliage and reduced flowering. There is no cure; remove and destroy infected bulbs to prevent spread by aphids.