The Leaves Are Turning Brown and the Flowers Are Dropping Off My Asiatic Lily

Overwatering

• Improper watering is a common problem and overwatering is a more common problem than underwatering, according to the University of California's Integrated Pest Management program. Plant foliage begins to turn brown as roots rot away in standing water.

Botrytis

• Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that affects lilies when water sits on leaves overnight or during cool, damp weather. Leaves become mottled and splotchy rather than uniformly brown. As with improper irrigation, the treatment includes establishing drip irrigation and good drainage. Fungal diseases often attack improperly irrigated plants; improving air circulation and using antifungal medications may help.

Stress

• Excessive heat, inconsistent watering or light levels lower than 460 foot candles cause stress, according to the University of Maryland. Asiatic hybrids, according to the University of Massachusetts, are susceptible to bud drop under stress and need 2,500 foot candles, daytime temperatures of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures of 50 to 55 degrees. A sudden freeze could kill both bloom and foliage.