What's eating my cob cactus?

Cob Cactus (Lobivia famatimensis) is a small globe cactus most threatened by root mealybugs and mealybugs in the dense areoles. Spider mites can also attack in warm, dry rooms. Its compact, clustered growth hides pest activity, so unpot and inspect roots annually and check areoles at every watering.

Wilting or shrivelling despite adequate watering; white powdery residue on roots revealed at repotting Remove from pot, wash roots clean, allow to dry; drench fresh cactus mix with diluted neem or systemic insecticide before repotting

Fluffy white wax in areoles and between clustered offsets; slowed growth; honeydew residue Dab infested spots with 70% isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray to the whole plant; separate offsets to treat hidden pockets

Pale stippling or webbing on stem surface; more common during dry winter heating periods Wipe down stems with a damp cloth; apply insecticidal soap spray; repeat after one week