Question

Wilting Tiger Lillies   QUESTION: I抳e had several seasons of oriental tiger lilies planted in partial sun in northern NJ with mostly excellent results.
However, each season some of the tiger lilies appear to wilt terribly with this year worse than usual which was strange since this year the bunch seemed to get off to a better, healthier, larger start than in previous years.

I usually spray the lilies a few times a season with Isotox combination fungicide/insecticide and deer repellant.
I thought maybe slugs were attacking but putting out the trays of beer caught only a few slugs. We have also had more rain than usual this year.

Attached photo was taken last week. This week the remaining healthy ones have started their usually brilliant bloom!

Thanks.

ANSWER: Hi John,
Thanx for your question.  The plants look like they have one of two things.  Either botrytis or basal rot which I'm leaning more towards because you stated you had more rain than usual.  Make sure you soil drains well as overly moist soil contributes to the growth of the fungus that causes basal root rot.  For botrytis you can treat with a horticultural copper spray available at your local nursery or try 1 tbs per gallon of baking soda to a gallon of water and spray the plants.  You might want to take a sample to your local county extension agent for a diagnosis.  If you'll give me your county, I'll provide contact information.  I hope this helps.
Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Tom:

I am in Morris County in northern NJ.

Also, what's the protocol for treating basal root rot if that is the culprit?

Thanks again!

Answer
Hi John,
Below is contact information for your County Extension Horticultural agent.

http://njaes.rutgers.edu/personnel/unit.asp?id=89&s=u

The recommendation for control of basal root rot is generally to destroy the bulbs.  Tiger lilies carry a lot of viruses and should be isolated anyway from other bulbs.  Call your extension agent and ask if you can bring in a sample of the diseased plant to confirm diagnosis.  They may also have some additional resources that might help you.  I hope this helps.
Tom