Troubleshooting
Red Tower Ginger problems — and how to fix them
Red Tower Ginger (Costus barbatus) 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.
Failure to bloom
Costus barbatus only flowers on stems from the current growing season in ideal conditions; plants in zones below 9b die back and may not produce mature flowering stems — ensure a long, warm growing season and maximum nutrition.
Aphids on bracts
The sticky, colourful bracts attract aphids that cluster at the base of the flower cones; knock off with a strong water jet or treat with insecticidal soap, taking care not to damage the bracts.
Root rot from poor drainage
In containers, ensure there are multiple drainage holes; standing water around the rhizomes quickly leads to soft rot, especially in cool or cloudy conditions.
Prevent red tower ginger problems before they start
Most red tower ginger issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Red Tower Ginger problems — FAQ
Why is my red tower ginger failure to bloom?
Costus barbatus only flowers on stems from the current growing season in ideal conditions; plants in zones below 9b die back and may not produce mature flowering stems — ensure a long, warm growing season and maximum nutrition.
Why is my red tower ginger aphids on bracts?
The sticky, colourful bracts attract aphids that cluster at the base of the flower cones; knock off with a strong water jet or treat with insecticidal soap, taking care not to damage the bracts.
Why is my red tower ginger root rot from poor drainage?
In containers, ensure there are multiple drainage holes; standing water around the rhizomes quickly leads to soft rot, especially in cool or cloudy conditions.