What's eating my iris reticulata 'harmony'?

Iris reticulata 'Harmony' is an early-flowering dwarf bulbous iris that blooms in late winter. Slugs attacking the tiny emerging leaves and flowers are the top concern. Ink disease (Mystrosporium adustum fungus) can blacken and kill the small bulbs. Aphids sometimes target buds. Iris borer does not affect this bulbous species.

Flowers and emerging foliage eaten at soil level during the late-winter flowering period when plants are most exposed and the soil is wet. Scatter iron phosphate pellets around bulb clumps in late winter. Plant in free-draining gritty soil or raised troughs where slugs are less active.

Black crusty lesions on the outer bulb scales; infected bulbs rot away entirely, causing sudden plant loss. Buy certified disease-free bulbs. Do not replant Iris reticulata in the same spot for at least 5 years. Discard and destroy any blackened bulbs immediately.

Small clusters on flower stems and buds in late winter can distort petals and spread virus. Remove by hand or use a dilute insecticidal soap spray; grow in open, airy situations; remove affected growth promptly.