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Botrytis Blight in Paperwhite Narcissus
How to identify and treat botrytis blight in Paperwhite Narcissus.
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Paperwhite Narcissus care requirements
water
Keep the growing medium consistently moist during active growth and flowering. If forcing in water and pebbles, maintain water level just below the bulb base; change water every 3–4 days to prevent bacterial growth and odors.
soil
Can be grown in traditional peat-based potting soil, or forced in pebbles and water (a soilless method). When using soil, ensure excellent drainage. Water-forcing requires only pebbles or gravel and water, no soil needed.
light
Requires bright light for proper growth and flowering. Place in a south-facing window or provide supplemental grow lights. Insufficient light results in weak, leggy stems and poor flowers.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Paperwhite Narcissus
- 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 Paperwhite Narcissus
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.
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How to treat botrytis blight in Paperwhite Narcissus
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 Paperwhite Narcissus
Avoid overhead watering and overcrowding, water at soil level, deadhead spent flowers promptly, and ensure good ventilation, especially in humid weather.