Feather Cactus problems — and how to fix them

The number-one killer. A mushy or blackened base, yellowing/softening stems, and a foul smell signal rot from too-frequent watering or soggy soil. Use a gritty mix, a draining pot, and let soil dry fully between waterings; keep nearly dry in winter.

Insufficient light makes stems stretch, pale, and lose their tight cushion shape. Move to a brighter spot and reintroduce stronger light gradually to avoid scorching.

White, cotton-like masses hide among the dense spines and in crevices, sucking sap. Dab them with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol and isolate the plant; check the roots too, as root mealybugs also occur.

Tiny mites cause fine speckling and webbing, especially in hot, dry, still air. Improve airflow, rinse the plant, and treat with insecticidal soap or diluted alcohol if needed.

Water or debris caught in the feathery spines can discolour them and invite fungal spotting. Water at the soil line rather than over the top, and keep good air movement around the plant.

Failure to bloom usually means too little light or no cool, dry winter rest. Give bright light in summer and a cooler, nearly dry dormancy in winter to trigger flowering.