Troubleshooting
Gaillardia 'Sun Devil' problems — and how to fix them
Gaillardia 'Sun Devil' (Gaillardia 'Sun Devil') 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.
Root rot and crown rot
The single most common cause of death. Caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Always grow in free-draining lean soil; never mulch over the crown.
Powdery mildew
Affects older foliage in humid conditions. Improve airflow, avoid overhead watering, and remove badly affected leaves.
Short lifespan
Many Gaillardia cultivars are short-lived perennials or biennials. Deadheading regularly extends flowering; allow some seed to set for self-seeding replacements.
Aphids
Occasionally troublesome on soft shoot tips. Remove by hand or spray with insecticidal soap. Generally a minor problem in open, sunny positions.
Aster yellows
Phytoplasma causes distorted flowers and mottled foliage. Remove and destroy affected plants immediately; control leafhoppers, which spread the pathogen.
Prevent gaillardia 'sun devil' problems before they start
Most gaillardia 'sun devil' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Gaillardia 'Sun Devil' problems — FAQ
Why is my gaillardia 'sun devil' root rot and crown rot?
The single most common cause of death. Caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Always grow in free-draining lean soil; never mulch over the crown.
Why is my gaillardia 'sun devil' powdery mildew?
Affects older foliage in humid conditions. Improve airflow, avoid overhead watering, and remove badly affected leaves.
Why is my gaillardia 'sun devil' short lifespan?
Many Gaillardia cultivars are short-lived perennials or biennials. Deadheading regularly extends flowering; allow some seed to set for self-seeding replacements.
Why is my gaillardia 'sun devil' aphids?
Occasionally troublesome on soft shoot tips. Remove by hand or spray with insecticidal soap. Generally a minor problem in open, sunny positions.
Why is my gaillardia 'sun devil' aster yellows?
Phytoplasma causes distorted flowers and mottled foliage. Remove and destroy affected plants immediately; control leafhoppers, which spread the pathogen.