Troubleshooting
Pachycereus schottii problems — and how to fix them
Pachycereus schottii (Pachycereus schottii) 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.
Etiolation
Pale, narrowed, stretched growth in low light. Provide maximum direct sun or supplement with a grow light to keep stems firm and well-coloured.
Basal rot
Soft, blackening base from overwatering or cold-wet soil. Improve drainage, water only when fully dry, and keep nearly dry in winter.
Mealybugs
Cottony white masses between ribs and in areoles. Treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton bud and inspect roots for soil-dwelling mealybugs.
Corky base
Lower-stem corking is normal ageing, but check that browning is firm and dry rather than soft and spreading, which would indicate rot.
Prevent pachycereus schottii problems before they start
Most pachycereus schottii issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for pachycereus schottii in general rather than its problems? Read the full pachycereus schottii care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Pachycereus schottii problems — FAQ
Why is my pachycereus schottii etiolation?
Pale, narrowed, stretched growth in low light. Provide maximum direct sun or supplement with a grow light to keep stems firm and well-coloured.
Why is my pachycereus schottii basal rot?
Soft, blackening base from overwatering or cold-wet soil. Improve drainage, water only when fully dry, and keep nearly dry in winter.
Why is my pachycereus schottii mealybugs?
Cottony white masses between ribs and in areoles. Treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton bud and inspect roots for soil-dwelling mealybugs.
Why is my pachycereus schottii corky base?
Lower-stem corking is normal ageing, but check that browning is firm and dry rather than soft and spreading, which would indicate rot.