Question
I have a large brugmansia that has been in full bloom for several days now.  It is on a sunny deck in a self-watering pot and is getting regular water and food.  Yesterday I noticed two blossoms turning brown at the tips--now they all are.  What might be the problem?  Or are the blossoms just short-lived in heat?

Answer
Hi Rebecca,
Thanx for your question.  Check your self-watering system.  Brugs hate wet feet although they like regular watering.  They do not tolerate soil that does not drain well.  You say they are getting regular food.  Brugs are heavy feeders and will require compost or regular feedings of a fertilizer for flowering shrubs.  Also, a couple of teaspoons of epsom salts in a gallon of water helps keep out chlorosis (yellowing leaves, etc.).  Check the plant for spider mites.  These are tiny bugs that can infest a plant and do a lot of damage before you even realize they are there.  They are easily removed with water or insecticidal soap.  Check the spent blossoms for parasites too.  There are several types of midges and moths that lay eggs in flowers and the larvae will feed on the ovaries causing the flower to fail to bloom.  It is also possible that if it is very hot where you are, it will cause the blooms to prematurely abort.  I hope this helps.
Tom