Troubleshooting
Autumn Squill problems — and how to fix them
Autumn Squill (Scilla autumnalis) 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.
Bulb rot
The single most common problem; always results from too much moisture in summer dormancy. Plant on a slope or in gritty raised beds.
Failure to flower
Bulbs planted too deep or in too much shade will produce leaves but not flowers. Plant at twice bulb depth and in full sun.
Vine weevil larvae
Larvae feed on bulbs underground. Check when lifting or repotting; use nematode biological control in late summer.
Rodent damage
Squirrels and mice dig up and eat squill bulbs. Lay wire mesh just below the soil surface over new plantings.
Prevent autumn squill problems before they start
Most autumn squill issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Autumn Squill problems — FAQ
Why is my autumn squill bulb rot?
The single most common problem; always results from too much moisture in summer dormancy. Plant on a slope or in gritty raised beds.
Why is my autumn squill failure to flower?
Bulbs planted too deep or in too much shade will produce leaves but not flowers. Plant at twice bulb depth and in full sun.
Why is my autumn squill vine weevil larvae?
Larvae feed on bulbs underground. Check when lifting or repotting; use nematode biological control in late summer.
Why is my autumn squill rodent damage?
Squirrels and mice dig up and eat squill bulbs. Lay wire mesh just below the soil surface over new plantings.