Troubleshooting
Geay's Pachypodium problems — and how to fix them
Geay's Pachypodium (Pachypodium geayi) 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.
Trunk base rot
Caused by overwatering, especially in winter dormancy. Reduce watering dramatically in autumn and keep the substrate dry through winter.
Leaf drop in autumn
Normal deciduous behaviour as the plant enters dormancy; do not overwater in response.
Spine injury
The long curved spines are very sharp; handle with thick gloves and position away from high-traffic areas.
Mealybugs
Can colonise the base of the leaf crown; treat with systemic insecticide or alcohol-soaked swabs.
Failure to produce new leaves in spring
Usually caused by insufficient winter cold rest or inadequate light. Reduce winter watering and ensure maximum light as temperatures warm.
Prevent geay's pachypodium problems before they start
Most geay's pachypodium issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Geay's Pachypodium problems — FAQ
Why is my geay's pachypodium trunk base rot?
Caused by overwatering, especially in winter dormancy. Reduce watering dramatically in autumn and keep the substrate dry through winter.
Why is my geay's pachypodium leaf drop in autumn?
Normal deciduous behaviour as the plant enters dormancy; do not overwater in response.
Why is my geay's pachypodium spine injury?
The long curved spines are very sharp; handle with thick gloves and position away from high-traffic areas.
Why is my geay's pachypodium mealybugs?
Can colonise the base of the leaf crown; treat with systemic insecticide or alcohol-soaked swabs.
Why is my geay's pachypodium failure to produce new leaves in spring?
Usually caused by insufficient winter cold rest or inadequate light. Reduce winter watering and ensure maximum light as temperatures warm.