What's eating my cotyledon papillaris?

Cotyledon Papillaris, a compact succulent houseplant, is most at risk from mealybugs sheltering in its small leaf clusters. Root mealybugs are an equally serious hidden threat in dry potting mix. Check roots at repotting and treat soil as well as foliage when mealybugs are found on leaves.

White woolly deposits in leaf axils; honeydew and sooty mould; leaves pucker and drop in heavy infestations Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil drench and foliar spray; repeat weekly for a month

White wax coating on roots and soil particles; plant wilts or stalls despite correct watering; roots appear grey-white Unpot, wash all soil from roots, drench bare roots in insecticidal soap solution, repot in fresh dry mix

Larvae damage fine roots in overly moist soil; adults fly around the pot; seedlings most vulnerable Let soil dry completely between waterings; use Bti drench or predatory nematodes; yellow sticky traps catch adults