Pest identification
What's eating my feather cactus?
Mealybugs
Signs: Hidden cottony masses under the white spine cover; wilting or discolouration of the body
Control: Carefully part spines and treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a fine brush; repeat weekly for a month
Spider mites
Signs: Superfine webbing at the base or between areoles; dull, stippled skin
Control: Rinse carefully with lukewarm water; apply insecticidal soap spray; improve airflow
Fungus gnats
Signs: Larvae damage fine roots in overwatered compost, causing slow growth and sudden wilting
Control: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; use sticky yellow traps; drench with Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti)
Keep feather cactus pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Feather Cactus pests — FAQ
What is eating my feather cactus?
Feather Cactus is particularly prone to mealybugs, which shelter invisibly beneath its dense white feathery spines — making early detection difficult. Spider mites and root rot-linked fungus gnats are secondary concerns. Check by parting the spine cover near the base monthly; early alcohol treatment prevents colony spread.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on feather cactus?
Hidden cottony masses under the white spine cover; wilting or discolouration of the body Carefully part spines and treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a fine brush; repeat weekly for a month
How do I get rid of spider mites on feather cactus?
Superfine webbing at the base or between areoles; dull, stippled skin Rinse carefully with lukewarm water; apply insecticidal soap spray; improve airflow
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on feather cactus?
Larvae damage fine roots in overwatered compost, causing slow growth and sudden wilting Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; use sticky yellow traps; drench with Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti)