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I have two separate stalks of lilies come up this year, but unfortunately they have started to go orange/yellow even a light rusty colour and looks like they are dying before it has had a chance to flower. Would someone please help or is it too late?
Many thanks Mr M
Thank you for getting in touch, and we’re sorry to hear your lilies aren’t thriving as expected. It can be really disheartening to see them decline before flowering, but there may still be hope depending on the cause.
From your description—orange/yellowing leaves and a rusty appearance—it sounds like your lilies may be affected by lily rust or another stress-related issue. Here are a few possibilities and tips to help:
Possible Causes:
1. Lily Rust (Fungal Disease):
This is a common fungal infection that causes orange or rusty spots on the leaves. It typically spreads in warm, damp conditions.
What to do:
- Remove and destroy any infected leaves (do not compost).
- Treat with a fungicide suitable for ornamental plants if the infection is mild.
- Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
2. Nutrient Deficiency or Stress:
Yellowing leaves can also be a sign of poor drainage, compacted soil, or a lack of nutrients.
What to do:
- Ensure the soil is free-draining and not waterlogged.
- Use a balanced, slow-release fertiliser (or even tomato feed at half strength) to support healthy growth.
- Check that your lilies are planted in a sunny spot—most need at least half a day of sun.
3. Bulb Exhaustion or Rot:
If the bulbs are soft or mushy, they may have rotted due to poor drainage or excess moisture.
What to do:
- Gently dig around the bulb to check its condition. If it’s firm, it may still recover next season.
- If it’s soft or has a foul smell, it will unfortunately not recover.
Is It Too Late?
If the bulb is still firm and the base of the stem is green, there’s a chance it will come back next year with proper care. Lilies are perennials, and sometimes they take a season off to recover if they’ve been stressed or poorly established.
In Summary:
- Remove affected foliage
- Improve drainage and airflow
- Consider a gentle fungicide or feed
- Check the bulb condition if symptoms worsen
We hope your lilies bounce back—thank you for giving them the care they deserve.
The Hart Family
