Lobelia suddenly deteriorating - Ask Extension
I have a lobelia that was doing wonderfully but suddenly just wilted and starting dying. It's not a lack of water issue and it's also not too much wat...
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Lobelia suddenly deteriorating #807205
Asked August 20, 2022, 1:37 PM EDT
I have a lobelia that was doing wonderfully but suddenly just wilted and starting dying. It's not a lack of water issue and it's also not too much water. I had another one do something very similar about a month ago. Is there something that destroys the roots? I'm not sure what to look for. Any ideas?
Prince George's County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi Erin!
Take a look at the base of the plant and check for white growths that look like little pearls or stringy cotton (compare to photos on our Southern Blight page). Southern blight is caused by the fungus Sclerotium rolfsii. It is only active during the hot months and the first symptoms seen are wilting and collapse of individual stems or entire plants. If no fungi are present, you can try to cut the stem open and see if there are any boring insects inside.
Let us know what you find!
Jamie
