Troubleshooting
Alpine Puya problems — and how to fix them
Alpine Puya (Puya alpestris) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Crown rot in winter
If water collects in the central cup or on the leaf axils during cold weather, the growing crown quickly rots. Tilt container-grown plants slightly to drain the cup, and move under cover before the first autumn frost.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs shelter in the tight leaf axils near the base of the rosette and are hard to detect until populations are large. Inspect with a torch monthly; treat with a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol or with a systemic insecticide if infestation is established.
Prevent alpine puya problems before they start
Most alpine puya issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Alpine Puya problems — FAQ
Why is my alpine puya crown rot in winter?
If water collects in the central cup or on the leaf axils during cold weather, the growing crown quickly rots. Tilt container-grown plants slightly to drain the cup, and move under cover before the first autumn frost.
Why is my alpine puya mealybugs?
Mealybugs shelter in the tight leaf axils near the base of the rosette and are hard to detect until populations are large. Inspect with a torch monthly; treat with a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol or with a systemic insecticide if infestation is established.