Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Check for small white larvae in the bulb.
- Test the soil moisture with your finger.
- Look for signs of soft rot at the soil line.
Likely causes
Onion Maggots
Most likelyHow to tell: The plant wilts suddenly and the leaves turn yellow or brown. If you dig up the bulb, you will find small white larvae tunneling inside.
What to do: Remove infested plants immediately to stop the cycle. Cover young plants with row covers to prevent adult flies from laying eggs.
Overwatering
PossibleHow to tell: The soil feels soggy and the plant looks limp. The roots may appear mushy or dark.
What to do: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure your garden bed has excellent drainage to prevent standing water.
Find out what's wrong with your ail
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
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When to worry
Drooping is serious if it happens to young plants, as it usually indicates pest damage. It is rarely normal.
Stopping it coming back
Use floating row covers early in the season to block egg laying flies.
Ail: drooping? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your ail and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I save a plant with maggots?
- Unfortunately, once the bulb is infested, the plant will not recover. It is best to remove it to protect neighbors.
- How often should I water?
- Water every 5 to 10 days depending on your local rainfall and soil drainage.
More problems with Ail
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.