Troubleshooting
Bolero Painted Tongue problems — and how to fix them
Bolero Painted Tongue (Salpiglossis sinuata) 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.
Aphids
Common pest on soft new growth; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Grey mould can develop in cool, wet conditions; improve air circulation and remove affected tissue promptly.
Whitefly
Can infest container plants indoors; use yellow sticky traps and insecticidal soap.
Short bloom period in heat
Flowering stops when temperatures consistently exceed 25°C; plant successionally for extended colour.
Damping off
Seedlings can collapse at soil level from fungal damping off; use sterile seed compost and ensure good drainage.
Prevent bolero painted tongue problems before they start
Most bolero painted tongue issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Bolero Painted Tongue problems — FAQ
Why is my bolero painted tongue aphids?
Common pest on soft new growth; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Why is my bolero painted tongue botrytis (grey mould)?
Grey mould can develop in cool, wet conditions; improve air circulation and remove affected tissue promptly.
Why is my bolero painted tongue whitefly?
Can infest container plants indoors; use yellow sticky traps and insecticidal soap.
Why is my bolero painted tongue short bloom period in heat?
Flowering stops when temperatures consistently exceed 25°C; plant successionally for extended colour.
Why is my bolero painted tongue damping off?
Seedlings can collapse at soil level from fungal damping off; use sterile seed compost and ensure good drainage.