What's eating my echeveria 'afterglow'?

Echeveria 'Afterglow' has broad, pink-lavender leaves coated in farina that can trap mealybugs between the tightly packed rosette layers. These are the primary threat. Root mealybugs are a stealthy secondary concern. Avoid heavy leaf-wetting when treating to preserve the powdery coating. Fungus gnats indicate overwatering and secondary root stress rather than a primary pest.

White cottony clusters at leaf axils and rosette center; honeydew, sooty mold and stunted new growth Dab with 70% isopropyl alcohol; follow with neem oil spray directed at base; repeat every 7–10 days, avoiding leaf surfaces to protect farina

Wilting and yellowing despite adequate watering; white deposits visible on roots when plant is unpotted Remove from pot, wash roots, let dry, repot in fresh gritty cactus mix; drench with diluted neem oil after repotting

Tiny larvae in soil eat fine roots; adult flies hover at the soil surface and around the plant Reduce watering frequency; use well-draining gritty compost; apply Bti drench or sticky yellow traps for adults