Tree Lily and 'bugs'

Discussion in 'Pests, Diseases and Cures' started by domidani, Aug 28, 2013.

  1. domidani

    domidani Apprentice Gardener

    Joined:
    Aug 4, 2013
    Messages:
    14
    Gender:
    Male
    Ratings:
    +2
    Not sure if my last post went on (having bit of trouble with PC). i have been given a tree lily in a container which has looked quite spectacular for the last couple of months, however i have noticed during the last couple of days that the leaves are being eaten. would it be ok to use bug spray on the plant or would it cause damage to it ? if it is ok how often would you recommend i spray it ?
     
  2. Fat Controller

    Fat Controller 'Cuddly' Scottish Admin! Staff Member

    Joined:
    May 5, 2012
    Messages:
    26,220
    Gender:
    Male
    Occupation:
    Public Transport
    Location:
    At me 'puter, GCHQ Ashford Office, Middlesex
    Ratings:
    +48,875
    You could use something like Provado, but bear in mind that its alleged to be unfriendly to bees etc, so might not be ideal for you - shouldn't do the plant any harm though, and only use it when needed (preferably once only); if the leaves aren't all that badly eaten, it may just be best left - presumably the plant has finished blooming?
     
    • Like Like x 1
    • domidani

      domidani Apprentice Gardener

      Joined:
      Aug 4, 2013
      Messages:
      14
      Gender:
      Male
      Ratings:
      +2
      Yes the plant has finished blooming now and the leaves are not too badly eaten at the moment, it has got slightly worse today and being a bit of an amateur was concerned that the plant may go to ruin. Thanks for your advice
       
      • Like Like x 1
      • Fat Controller

        Fat Controller 'Cuddly' Scottish Admin! Staff Member

        Joined:
        May 5, 2012
        Messages:
        26,220
        Gender:
        Male
        Occupation:
        Public Transport
        Location:
        At me 'puter, GCHQ Ashford Office, Middlesex
        Ratings:
        +48,875
        The only thing that might be an issue still is red lilly beetle - I believe that they can attack the bulbs which will result in them failing next year, which might make the Provado worth a shot; however, I am little more than a newbie myself, so I can only give advice based on problems I have seen in my own garden in a limited time - I'd suggest waiting for the advice of one of the more expert/experienced members. :blue thumb:
         
        • Like Like x 1
        • Kristen

          Kristen Under gardener

          Joined:
          Jul 22, 2006
          Messages:
          17,534
          Gender:
          Male
          Location:
          Suffolk, UK
          Ratings:
          +12,667
          If you see adult lily beetles (red about 1/2" long) then pick them off and crush them. Their youngsters cover themselves in their poo - sorry, not very nice! - so you will see black balls. You can remove them too / wash them off. If you see those then that's probably what was eating them and just try removing them (keep an eye out for more daily).

          If it is not that then I would spray them.
           
          • Like Like x 1
          • catztail

            catztail Crazy Cat Lady

            Joined:
            May 7, 2009
            Messages:
            4,099
            Gender:
            Female
            Occupation:
            soon to be bus driver
            Location:
            Derby
            Ratings:
            +2,250
            Some lily beetle pics for reference. lillybeetlejpg.jpg red-lily-beetle-larve.jpg
             

            Attached Files:

            • Like Like x 1
            • Sirius

              Sirius Total Gardener

              Joined:
              Jun 26, 2012
              Messages:
              1,426
              Gender:
              Male
              Location:
              Hertfordshire
              Ratings:
              +1,225
              Provado will deal with these lilly beetles.
              I water all my lilies with this a couple of times a summer, and it seems to keep them pest free.
               
            Loading...

            Share This Page

            1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
              By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
              Dismiss Notice