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Botrytis Blight in Amaryllis

How to identify and treat botrytis blight in Amaryllis.

potted_plant

Amaryllis care requirements

water
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during active growth and flowering. Reduce watering gradually after flowering, then keep dry during the dormancy period (6–8 weeks) when the bulb rests.
soil
Use well-draining potting soil mixed with perlite or sand. Amaryllis bulbs must not sit in wet soil. Plant bulbs so the top third protrudes above the soil line.
light
Provide bright, indirect light once growth begins. After flowering, move to a very bright location (ideally sunny) to encourage foliage development and bulb strengthening for next season's bloom.
symptoms

Symptoms to look for in Amaryllis

  • fiber_manual_recordFuzzy grey-brown mould on flowers, leaves, or stems
  • fiber_manual_recordWater-soaked spots that turn brown and mushy
  • fiber_manual_recordBlighted flower buds that fail to open
help

Common causes in Amaryllis

Caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea (grey mould), which thrives in cool, humid conditions with poor air circulation, often spreading rapidly on damaged or ageing plant tissue.

healing

How to treat botrytis blight in Amaryllis

Remove and destroy all affected plant material immediately, improve airflow around the plant, and apply a fungicide labelled for Botrytis if the infection is spreading.

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Preventing botrytis blight in Amaryllis

Avoid overhead watering and overcrowding, water at soil level, deadhead spent flowers promptly, and ensure good ventilation, especially in humid weather.