Troubleshooting
Fuchsia 'Celia Smedley' problems — and how to fix them
Fuchsia 'Celia Smedley' (Fuchsia 'Celia Smedley') 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.
Whitefly
This large, lush cultivar is attractive to whitefly. Monitor with sticky traps and treat with insecticidal soap at the first sign of infestation.
Vine weevil
Grubs attack roots in containers; apply nematode treatments (Steinernema kraussei) to compost in late summer.
Botrytis
The large flowers can trap moisture. Deadhead promptly and ensure good air circulation, especially under glass.
Aphids
Check new soft growth regularly. Blast off with water or apply insecticidal soap; biological controls such as Aphidius wasps work well under glass.
Overwatering
Despite its vigour, this cultivar is susceptible to root rot if compost stays persistently wet. Allow brief surface drying between thorough waterings.
Prevent fuchsia 'celia smedley' problems before they start
Most fuchsia 'celia smedley' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Fuchsia 'Celia Smedley' problems — FAQ
Why is my fuchsia 'celia smedley' whitefly?
This large, lush cultivar is attractive to whitefly. Monitor with sticky traps and treat with insecticidal soap at the first sign of infestation.
Why is my fuchsia 'celia smedley' vine weevil?
Grubs attack roots in containers; apply nematode treatments (Steinernema kraussei) to compost in late summer.
Why is my fuchsia 'celia smedley' botrytis?
The large flowers can trap moisture. Deadhead promptly and ensure good air circulation, especially under glass.
Why is my fuchsia 'celia smedley' aphids?
Check new soft growth regularly. Blast off with water or apply insecticidal soap; biological controls such as Aphidius wasps work well under glass.
Why is my fuchsia 'celia smedley' overwatering?
Despite its vigour, this cultivar is susceptible to root rot if compost stays persistently wet. Allow brief surface drying between thorough waterings.