Troubleshooting
Compton's Gibbaeum problems — and how to fix them
Compton's Gibbaeum (Gibbaeum comptonii) 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.
Summer rot
Watering during the summer dormancy period causes the lobes to turn translucent and mushy at the base. Cease all watering from late spring through early autumn and ensure the pot dries completely.
Scarring from overwatering in winter
Too much water during winter causes the lobes to split or develop corky scars. Water very sparingly — once monthly at most — during cool months outside the autumn and spring flush.
Aphids and mealybugs
These sap-suckers target the young growth emerging between the lobes. Check the crevice between lobes regularly. Remove with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use a dilute neem solution.
Prevent compton's gibbaeum problems before they start
Most compton's gibbaeum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Compton's Gibbaeum problems — FAQ
Why is my compton's gibbaeum summer rot?
Watering during the summer dormancy period causes the lobes to turn translucent and mushy at the base. Cease all watering from late spring through early autumn and ensure the pot dries completely.
Why is my compton's gibbaeum scarring from overwatering in winter?
Too much water during winter causes the lobes to split or develop corky scars. Water very sparingly — once monthly at most — during cool months outside the autumn and spring flush.
Why is my compton's gibbaeum aphids and mealybugs?
These sap-suckers target the young growth emerging between the lobes. Check the crevice between lobes regularly. Remove with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use a dilute neem solution.