Troubleshooting
Lentil problems — and how to fix them
Lentil (Lens culinaris) 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.
Ascochyta blight (Ascochyta lentis)
Tan lesions with dark borders on leaves, stems, and pods; most damaging in cool, wet weather. Use certified disease-free seed, rotate on a 4-year cycle, and avoid overhead irrigation. Resistant varieties are available.
Botrytis grey mould
Fuzzy grey mould on stems and pods in humid, overcast conditions. Improve air circulation, remove affected plant material promptly, and reduce overhead watering. Common in UK springs with prolonged damp weather.
Weevils and seed beetles in storage
Bruchid beetles (Bruchus sp.) can infest stored dry lentils. Keep in airtight containers after thorough drying. Freeze for 48 hours after harvest to destroy any eggs before long-term storage.
Prevent lentil problems before they start
Most lentil issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for lentil in general rather than its problems? Read the full lentil care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Lentil problems — FAQ
Why is my lentil ascochyta blight (ascochyta lentis)?
Tan lesions with dark borders on leaves, stems, and pods; most damaging in cool, wet weather. Use certified disease-free seed, rotate on a 4-year cycle, and avoid overhead irrigation. Resistant varieties are available.
Why is my lentil botrytis grey mould?
Fuzzy grey mould on stems and pods in humid, overcast conditions. Improve air circulation, remove affected plant material promptly, and reduce overhead watering. Common in UK springs with prolonged damp weather.
Why is my lentil weevils and seed beetles in storage?
Bruchid beetles (Bruchus sp.) can infest stored dry lentils. Keep in airtight containers after thorough drying. Freeze for 48 hours after harvest to destroy any eggs before long-term storage.