Troubleshooting
Peacock Moraea problems — and how to fix them
Peacock Moraea (Moraea villosa) 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.
Corm rot during dormancy
Any moisture reaching the corms during summer dormancy rapidly causes fungal and bacterial rot; lift corms after foliage dies back, dry in a warm airy spot, and store in dry sand or paper bags until late summer replanting.
Mealy bug (Planococcus spp.)
Corms stored overwinter and pot-grown specimens are susceptible to mealy bug attack at the base of the leaves; inspect regularly and treat with an insecticidal soap drench or introduce predatory mites in a glasshouse setting.
Prevent peacock moraea problems before they start
Most peacock moraea issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Peacock Moraea problems — FAQ
Why is my peacock moraea corm rot during dormancy?
Any moisture reaching the corms during summer dormancy rapidly causes fungal and bacterial rot; lift corms after foliage dies back, dry in a warm airy spot, and store in dry sand or paper bags until late summer replanting.
Why is my peacock moraea mealy bug (planococcus spp.)?
Corms stored overwinter and pot-grown specimens are susceptible to mealy bug attack at the base of the leaves; inspect regularly and treat with an insecticidal soap drench or introduce predatory mites in a glasshouse setting.