Troubleshooting
Many-spiked Ixia problems — and how to fix them
Many-spiked Ixia (Ixia polystachya) 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.
Corm rot in wet summers
The primary problem in cool, wet climates. Lift corms after foliage dies down, dry thoroughly, and store in paper bags in a cool, dry place until autumn replanting.
Failure to open flowers
Flowers are heliotropic and only open fully in bright direct sunlight. Plant in the sunniest, most sheltered spot available.
Spider mites in dry conditions
In hot, dry conditions under glass, spider mites cause a fine stippled look to foliage. Raise humidity slightly and treat with insecticidal soap.
Corms split and fail to flower after overcrowding
Lift and divide every 2-3 years in summer to refresh vigour. Overcrowded corms compete and produce fewer flowers.
Prevent many-spiked ixia problems before they start
Most many-spiked ixia issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Many-spiked Ixia problems — FAQ
Why is my many-spiked ixia corm rot in wet summers?
The primary problem in cool, wet climates. Lift corms after foliage dies down, dry thoroughly, and store in paper bags in a cool, dry place until autumn replanting.
Why is my many-spiked ixia failure to open flowers?
Flowers are heliotropic and only open fully in bright direct sunlight. Plant in the sunniest, most sheltered spot available.
Why is my many-spiked ixia spider mites in dry conditions?
In hot, dry conditions under glass, spider mites cause a fine stippled look to foliage. Raise humidity slightly and treat with insecticidal soap.
Why is my many-spiked ixia corms split and fail to flower after overcrowding?
Lift and divide every 2-3 years in summer to refresh vigour. Overcrowded corms compete and produce fewer flowers.