Troubleshooting
Bulb Sparaxis problems — and how to fix them
Bulb Sparaxis (Sparaxis bulbifera) 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.
Corm rot in wet winters
In cold rainy climates, lift corms after die-back and store dry at 10-12°C. Plant out again in spring after last frost.
Spreading via bulbils
Aerial bulbils can cause the plant to spread beyond intended areas. Collect bulbils annually if containing spread is desired.
Non-flowering
Usually caused by inadequate sun or planting too shallow. Plant corms 8 cm deep in the sunniest available spot.
Aphids on new growth
Monitor in spring and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or a blast of water before populations establish.
Frost damage to emerging shoots
Late frosts can damage early growth; protect with fleece or delay planting until after last frost date in cold regions.
Prevent bulb sparaxis problems before they start
Most bulb sparaxis issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Bulb Sparaxis problems — FAQ
Why is my bulb sparaxis corm rot in wet winters?
In cold rainy climates, lift corms after die-back and store dry at 10-12°C. Plant out again in spring after last frost.
Why is my bulb sparaxis spreading via bulbils?
Aerial bulbils can cause the plant to spread beyond intended areas. Collect bulbils annually if containing spread is desired.
Why is my bulb sparaxis non-flowering?
Usually caused by inadequate sun or planting too shallow. Plant corms 8 cm deep in the sunniest available spot.
Why is my bulb sparaxis aphids on new growth?
Monitor in spring and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or a blast of water before populations establish.
Why is my bulb sparaxis frost damage to emerging shoots?
Late frosts can damage early growth; protect with fleece or delay planting until after last frost date in cold regions.