Troubleshooting
Scarlet Ginger Lily problems — and how to fix them
Scarlet Ginger Lily (Hedychium coccineum) 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.
Winter cold damage
In USDA zones 7-8, apply a thick mulch of straw or bark over the rhizomes after the first frost to insulate them over winter.
Slug and snail damage
Emerging shoots in spring are attractive targets. Use slug pellets or biological controls proactively.
Spider mites
Can occur on indoor or glasshouse plants in dry conditions. Increase humidity and treat with insecticidal soap.
Failure to flower in first season
Young divisions may establish for a full season before flowering. Ensure warmth, adequate moisture, and high-potassium feeding.
Wind damage
Tall canes are susceptible to wind rock and breakage. Stake in exposed positions and site in a sheltered microclimate.
Prevent scarlet ginger lily problems before they start
Most scarlet ginger lily issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Scarlet Ginger Lily problems — FAQ
Why is my scarlet ginger lily winter cold damage?
In USDA zones 7-8, apply a thick mulch of straw or bark over the rhizomes after the first frost to insulate them over winter.
Why is my scarlet ginger lily slug and snail damage?
Emerging shoots in spring are attractive targets. Use slug pellets or biological controls proactively.
Why is my scarlet ginger lily spider mites?
Can occur on indoor or glasshouse plants in dry conditions. Increase humidity and treat with insecticidal soap.
Why is my scarlet ginger lily failure to flower in first season?
Young divisions may establish for a full season before flowering. Ensure warmth, adequate moisture, and high-potassium feeding.
Why is my scarlet ginger lily wind damage?
Tall canes are susceptible to wind rock and breakage. Stake in exposed positions and site in a sheltered microclimate.