Basically, lilies are not high-maintenance. But if you have no idea about their needs, you can make mistakes and get into trouble in the form of illness in your pets. Which diseases are becoming more common and how can they be prevented?
What diseases occur in lilies and how can they be prevented?
The most common diseases of lilies include stem rot, Botrytis elliptica (spots on the leaves), Fusarium wilt and viral diseases. Preventative measures include robust varieties, he althy plants, loose soil, good drainage, moderate watering and avoiding over-fertilization.
Stem root rot: waterlogging is dangerous
In not uncommon cases, so-called stem rot occurs in lilies. It manifests itself in browning stems and leaves. These dry up and fall off. Eventually the plant dies. The cause is fungal pathogens.
Lilies that are kept in a pot as houseplants are particularly at risk. The pot can quickly become waterlogged if the drainage is not correct or there are no holes in the bottom of the pot. Waterlogging increases the risk of stem rot enormously.
Botrytis elliptica – spots on the leaves
If your lily is affected by this disease (fungal pathogen), you can tell by round, yellow to red-brown spots on the leaves. These increase in size and are favored by damp weather. As time passes, the pathogen spreads to the stems until they break off.
Fusarium wilt – the most serious disease in lilies
This disease, which is caused by a fungal pathogen, is considered the most serious disease in lilies. An infestation remains hidden for a long time because: The bulb is slowly hollowed out from below. Eventually the plant dies. The fungal spores survive in the soil and can infect newly planted lilies.
Viral diseases – pale patterns on the leaves
If your lily has been affected by a viral disease - usually spread by aphids - you will recognize this by pale mottled patterns on the leaves. In addition, deformities occur. If you notice such things, you should immediately dispose of the diseased plant (ideally burn it). Otherwise, other lilies in the area could also become ill.
Preventing diseases effectively
- choose robust varieties
- buy he althy plants
- Avoid injuries to the plant
- choose loose, humus-rich soil
- make sure there is good drainage
- When planting, loosen the planting hole generously
- water regularly but moderately
- do not over-fertilize
- Disinfect cutting tools
Tips & Tricks
Infestation of fungi on above-ground parts of plants is less serious. Although the plant dies, its bulb in the ground survives and sprouts again the next year.
