Troubleshooting
Small Solomon's Seal problems — and how to fix them
Small Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum biflorum) 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.
Solomon's seal sawfly (Phymatocera aterrima)
Although primarily a European pest, related sawfly species can defoliate plants in North America. Grey-black larvae strip stems of leaves. Inspect plants from late spring and hand-pick larvae. Affected plants recover the following season.
Slugs on emerging shoots
Tender young shoots in early spring attract slug feeding, resulting in ragged, notched foliage. Apply ferric phosphate slug pellets around emerging growth. Established plants are more resilient but young transplants are vulnerable.
Rhizome rot in poorly drained soil
Waterlogged soil, especially in winter, causes rhizome rot. Affected rhizomes become soft and brown. Plant in well-drained positions; if soil is heavy clay, raise beds slightly and incorporate grit or organic matter to improve drainage.
Prevent small solomon's seal problems before they start
Most small solomon's seal issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Small Solomon's Seal problems — FAQ
Why is my small solomon's seal solomon's seal sawfly (phymatocera aterrima)?
Although primarily a European pest, related sawfly species can defoliate plants in North America. Grey-black larvae strip stems of leaves. Inspect plants from late spring and hand-pick larvae. Affected plants recover the following season.
Why is my small solomon's seal slugs on emerging shoots?
Tender young shoots in early spring attract slug feeding, resulting in ragged, notched foliage. Apply ferric phosphate slug pellets around emerging growth. Established plants are more resilient but young transplants are vulnerable.
Why is my small solomon's seal rhizome rot in poorly drained soil?
Waterlogged soil, especially in winter, causes rhizome rot. Affected rhizomes become soft and brown. Plant in well-drained positions; if soil is heavy clay, raise beds slightly and incorporate grit or organic matter to improve drainage.