Question
I work at a small nursery.  We used to grow lupine from seed with great results.  Then we bought plugs 2 yrs running and most of the lupine died mysteriously.  We checked for pests and disease.  The only thing we found that could be problematic was inconsistent watering.  Tried them from seed again this year, they started very nicely then went downhill all summer.  I know lupine don't like roots disturbed.  We're very careful.  Can find no pest.  leaves curl and wither.  eventually whole plant dies. grown outside, full sun, sterile promix used, occasional fertilizer.  I'm stumped.

Answer
Hi Ellen,
Thanx for your question.  It sounds like either Fusarium wilt or root rot to me.  Did you check the roots of the dying plants just to see their condition?  Somehow the growing environment is being contaminated.  If I were you, I would take a sample to the County Extension Office and see if they can diagnose for sure what it is.  If you'll give me your state and county, I can get you the contact information.  If you are outside of the U.S. I still may be able to help.  I know U.K., Canada and Australia have resources similar to University Cooperative Extension Services which are part of the American Agricultural colleges.  I hope this helps.
Tom