Troubleshooting
Lady Tulip problems — and how to fix them
Lady Tulip (Tulipa clusiana) 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.
Tulip fire (Botrytis tulipae)
Brown, scorched patches on petals and leaves with grey mould in humid conditions. Remove and destroy affected plants immediately; avoid overhead watering and do not replant Tulipa in the same soil for at least two seasons.
Viruses (tulip breaking virus)
Produces streaked or feathered colour patterns on petals and mottled foliage; plants weaken progressively. There is no cure — dig up and destroy affected bulbs to prevent spread by aphids.
Prevent lady tulip problems before they start
Most lady tulip issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Lady Tulip problems — FAQ
Why is my lady tulip tulip fire (botrytis tulipae)?
Brown, scorched patches on petals and leaves with grey mould in humid conditions. Remove and destroy affected plants immediately; avoid overhead watering and do not replant Tulipa in the same soil for at least two seasons.
Why is my lady tulip viruses (tulip breaking virus)?
Produces streaked or feathered colour patterns on petals and mottled foliage; plants weaken progressively. There is no cure — dig up and destroy affected bulbs to prevent spread by aphids.