| Allium Problems | |
|---|---|
| Symptom | Probable Cause |
| Leaves Streaked With Gray Or Brown | Thrips |
| No Flowers; Stunted Growth | Bulb Rot |
| Foliage Burned | Dogs |
Leaves Streaked With Gray Or Brown Caused By Thrips
Adult thrips are tiny, slender insects, 1/25 inch long, variously colored pale yellow, black or brown, with four long, narrow wings. Larvae are usually wingless. Thrips rasp leaf surfaces and feed on the exuding juice, which causes gray or brown streaks or the host Allium. Set out yellow sticky traps about 4 weeks after last frost as early warning devices. As soon as you spot thrips on the traps, spray insecticidal soap on any visible bugs every three days for two weeks. For more information about Thrips see the file Controlling Thrips
No Flowers; Stunted Growth Caused By Bulb Rot
Bulbs purchased from a reputable dealer rarely develop bulb rot. This fungus causes the bulbs to become mushy or dried out. The foliage becomes yellow and stunted, and the Alliums may not flower. Dig up and trash infected bulbs.
Foliage Burned Caused By Dog
Dog urine may discolor and kill ornamental onion foliage. Spraying foliage with an anti-transpirant gives some protection. Screen the Alliums or spray them with an aerosol pet repellent. For more information about this problem see Dealing With Dogs and Cats
