What's eating my white towers toad lily?

White Towers Toad Lily, a white-flowered form of Tricyrtis hirta, faces the same pest profile as the species. Slugs are the gravest threat, capable of destroying spring shoots before growth gets underway. Rabbits will browse stems and buds. Aphids can spread a virus that disfigures flowers — particularly conspicuous on white blooms.

Shoots eaten at ground level in spring; ragged holes and chewed margins on leaves during the season; slime trails evident. Iron phosphate bait scattered early in spring as shoots emerge is the most reliable control. Diatomaceous earth and beer traps supplement this.

Stems, leaves, and flower buds cleanly removed; affected plants grow shorter and bloom late or not at all. Protect with wire mesh cages or hoops. Rabbit repellent sprays offer partial deterrence but require reapplication after rain.

Colonies on stems and buds; virus vectored by aphids turns flower color mottled and then fully purple — very visible on white-flowered forms. Prompt removal with water jet or insecticidal soap. Dispose of virus-affected plants in the trash — do not compost. No chemical cure exists for the virus.