Troubleshooting
Cliff Cotyledon problems — and how to fix them
Cliff Cotyledon (Cotyledon pendens) 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 problem if water collects in the base of hanging baskets. Ensure the basket liner or pot has drainage holes and allow to dry between waterings.
Stem die-back
Individual trailing stems may die back from the tips. Trim to healthy tissue and check watering routine.
Mealybugs
Infest the nodes along trailing stems. Inspect regularly and treat with isopropyl alcohol or systemic insecticide.
Loss of red leaf tips
Red pigmentation fades in low light or from over-watering. Increase light and reduce water to restore colour.
Sparse flowering
Requires a cool, slightly drier winter rest period to initiate flower buds for the following summer.
Prevent cliff cotyledon problems before they start
Most cliff cotyledon issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Cliff Cotyledon problems — FAQ
Why is my cliff cotyledon root rot?
The most common problem if water collects in the base of hanging baskets. Ensure the basket liner or pot has drainage holes and allow to dry between waterings.
Why is my cliff cotyledon stem die-back?
Individual trailing stems may die back from the tips. Trim to healthy tissue and check watering routine.
Why is my cliff cotyledon mealybugs?
Infest the nodes along trailing stems. Inspect regularly and treat with isopropyl alcohol or systemic insecticide.
Why is my cliff cotyledon loss of red leaf tips?
Red pigmentation fades in low light or from over-watering. Increase light and reduce water to restore colour.
Why is my cliff cotyledon sparse flowering?
Requires a cool, slightly drier winter rest period to initiate flower buds for the following summer.