Random marigolds suddenly die

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81302 Central, WI(Zone 4b) Jul 29, 2007

Have tall yellow marigolds that had been florishing and loaded with blooms. All planted in a border circle. Suddenly random nonajacent ones have wilted literally overnight, and died. Pulled one and looks like very little root system. Was thinking some insect in soil but dug around and not spotting anthing. Any input on cause and how to prevent loss of more would be greatly appreciated.

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ecrane3 Dublin, CA(Zone 9a) Jul 29, 2007

Probably voles or gophers--I'm not sure which is more common in your area. I always know the gophers have struck again when I see plants wilted for no reason, then I go look at them and the roots are either completely chewed off or almost so.

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81302 Central, WI(Zone 4b) Jul 29, 2007

Thanks ecrane3- Didn't see hole but moles, voles, and chipmunks all in our area.so that is distinct possibility. How's that for adding to gardening challenges?!!! Will put repellent in area and see if that helps although I often think that the animals don't read the packages and keep coming to area anyway just like some people ignore no trespassing signs:-) Already have tried the traps etc. etc. etc.

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WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland, United Kingdom Jul 31, 2007

Also look for a black bug on the foliage, has a ribbed back about the size of a ladybird, but all black, these are called Vine Weevels, these lay there eggs in the soil around the roots, once the white/cream coloured grub hatch, they eat away at the plant roots, these are white/cream with a tiny red/brown head and are always shaped like a horse shoe, as you dig the soil, look for the little grubs, if you have them, you will soon notice them as they are fat and about half inch in size. good luck. WeeNel.

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81302 Central, WI(Zone 4b) Aug 01, 2007

I was initially thinking grubs too but couldn't see any in the soil but haven't checked the foliage. Will do that as soon as I log off. Thanks WeeNel!

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