
Problem: Root and Bulb Rot (Lily)

Problem Info
Analysis
Rot problems are common with lilies. These plant diseases are caused by various fungi (Rhizoctonia, Phytophthora, Pythium, Fusarium, and Cylindrocarpon species). These fungi attack and decay the bulbs and roots, causing stunting, wilting, and eventually death of the foliage and flowers. These bulb and root-rot organisms live in the soil and stored bulbs and are favored by wet soil. Sometimes bulbs in storage are lightly infected, but the fungal decay hasn''t progressed far enough to be easily noticed. When planted, these bulbs may rot so quickly that they do not produce any foliage.
Solution Advice
Remove and destroy badly infected plants. Check all bulbs carefully and discard any that are moldy, rotted, or dry and crumbly. Plant in well-drained soil. Store bulbs in a cool, dry location.