What's eating my freesia refracta?

Freesia refracta, the species freesia, is most vulnerable to aphids, which colonise its wiry stems and buds and can transmit debilitating viruses. Thrips damage the delicate flowers directly. Bulb mites attack stored or waterlogged corms. Good drainage, early inspection, and organic sprays keep the species healthy.

Colonies on stems and flower buds; sticky honeydew, sooty mould, and virus symptoms such as streaked or stunted flowers. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil at first sighting. Dispose of virus-infected plants. Attract predatory insects.

Silvery streaking on petals and leaves; flowers fail to open cleanly or show browning. Remove affected flowers immediately. Use spinosad spray in the evening. Yellow sticky traps help track infestation levels.

Soft, rotting corms in storage or wet ground; plants fail to sprout or emerge weakly. Only plant firm, healthy corms. Ensure good drainage. Dust corms with sulfur powder before storage to deter mites.