Troubleshooting
Bladder Cyphostemma problems — and how to fix them
Bladder Cyphostemma (Cyphostemma uter) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root rot
The most common cause of death. Caused by overwatering, especially during dormancy or in poorly draining soil. Ensure the caudex is never sitting in wet mix; repot into dry gritty media if rot is detected and remove affected roots.
Failure to thrive / etiolation
Insufficient light causes weak, stretched growth and a soft caudex. Move to the brightest available position; grow lights can supplement during short winter days.
Seedling damping off
Young seedlings are extremely prone to fungal collapse. Start seeds in near-sterile mineral substrate, water very sparingly, and ensure maximum airflow.
Prevent bladder cyphostemma problems before they start
Most bladder cyphostemma issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Bladder Cyphostemma problems — FAQ
Why is my bladder cyphostemma root rot?
The most common cause of death. Caused by overwatering, especially during dormancy or in poorly draining soil. Ensure the caudex is never sitting in wet mix; repot into dry gritty media if rot is detected and remove affected roots.
Why is my bladder cyphostemma failure to thrive / etiolation?
Insufficient light causes weak, stretched growth and a soft caudex. Move to the brightest available position; grow lights can supplement during short winter days.
Why is my bladder cyphostemma seedling damping off?
Young seedlings are extremely prone to fungal collapse. Start seeds in near-sterile mineral substrate, water very sparingly, and ensure maximum airflow.