Troubleshooting
Narrow-leaved Fockea problems — and how to fix them
Narrow-leaved Fockea (Fockea angustifolia) 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 and caudex rot
Caused by waterlogged soil or watering during winter dormancy. Symptoms include a soft, discoloured caudex base and wilting vines. Lift the plant, cut away rotted tissue, dust with sulphur, and allow to callous for several days before replanting in fresh dry mix.
Sparse, leggy vines
Insufficient light causes elongated internodes and few narrow leaves. Move to a brighter position or supplement with a grow-light during short winter days.
Mealy bugs
Mealy bugs shelter in the crown at the junction of the caudex and vines or in axils along the stems. Inspect regularly and treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab for small infestations, or a systemic neonicotinoid-free insecticide for heavier attacks.
Prevent narrow-leaved fockea problems before they start
Most narrow-leaved fockea issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Narrow-leaved Fockea problems — FAQ
Why is my narrow-leaved fockea root and caudex rot?
Caused by waterlogged soil or watering during winter dormancy. Symptoms include a soft, discoloured caudex base and wilting vines. Lift the plant, cut away rotted tissue, dust with sulphur, and allow to callous for several days before replanting in fresh dry mix.
Why is my narrow-leaved fockea sparse, leggy vines?
Insufficient light causes elongated internodes and few narrow leaves. Move to a brighter position or supplement with a grow-light during short winter days.
Why is my narrow-leaved fockea mealy bugs?
Mealy bugs shelter in the crown at the junction of the caudex and vines or in axils along the stems. Inspect regularly and treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab for small infestations, or a systemic neonicotinoid-free insecticide for heavier attacks.