The MGS Forum

Gardening in mediterranean climates => Pests and diseases => Topic started by: MikeHardman on August 02, 2011, 08:36:20 AM

Title: Dianthus slow death by parts
Post by: MikeHardman on August 02, 2011, 08:36:20 AM

This Dianthus had been flowering very well for months, then a patch died-off, then another - so now there is just a small bit remaining. The patches seem fine, then turn straw-coloured suddenly. There are cats around, but adjacent plants (including similar Dianthus) are not affected.
I have not dug it up yet, but that will happen soon - so I may have a useful update to add (eg. to say it was vine weevil).
Meanwhile, any ideas?

Title: Re: Dianthus slow death by parts
Post by: Paul T. on November 24, 2011, 08:47:17 AM

Mike,

How did this plant go?  Did it recover?  I would have been taking cuttings to make a backup plant, unless this was one of many.  I do find the same sort of occurrence here in Dianthus from time to time, and suspect root problems although I have never taken the time to investigate fully. :-\

Title: Re: Dianthus slow death by parts
Post by: David Bracey on November 24, 2011, 09:21:36 AM

Mike, Fusarium spp is a common disease of Dianthus but I have no idea how the symptoms look.

Title: Re: Dianthus slow death by parts
Post by: MikeHardman on November 24, 2011, 05:03:06 PM

Guys, thanks for comments.
The plant is almost exactly the same (over three months on)- no better, no worse.
It is the only plant of this particular cultivar that I have, but it is of no particular value. I have been wary of taking cuttings while it is weak. But anyway, I am thinking of replanting the whole bed as several plants are not doing well in it. I'll see about some sort of rescue attempt for the Dianthus when I dig the things up. I'll update thereafter.