Pest identification
What's eating my graptoveria 'acaulis'?
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white deposits in leaf axils; plant loses vigor and leaves become sticky from honeydew
Control: Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a swab; follow with weekly neem oil spray; isolate the plant from others during treatment
Root mealybugs
Signs: Yellowing and wilting despite correct watering; white powdery crust on roots when unpotted
Control: Remove all soil, wash roots, dry, and repot in fresh gritty mix; apply neem or imidacloprid soil drench at repotting
Spider mites
Signs: Pale speckled stippling on leaf surfaces; webbing between leaves in advanced infestations
Control: Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase airflow; treat on a 5-day cycle for at least three applications
Keep graptoveria 'acaulis' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Graptoveria 'Acaulis' pests — FAQ
What is eating my graptoveria 'acaulis'?
Graptoveria 'Acaulis' is a compact intergeneric hybrid (Graptopetalum × Echeveria). Like its parent genera, mealybugs are the number-one threat, nestling in its tight rosette. Spider mites follow in dry conditions. Root mealybugs can go undetected until the plant collapses. Good air flow and monthly inspections prevent most outbreaks.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on graptoveria 'acaulis'?
Cottony white deposits in leaf axils; plant loses vigor and leaves become sticky from honeydew Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a swab; follow with weekly neem oil spray; isolate the plant from others during treatment
How do I get rid of root mealybugs on graptoveria 'acaulis'?
Yellowing and wilting despite correct watering; white powdery crust on roots when unpotted Remove all soil, wash roots, dry, and repot in fresh gritty mix; apply neem or imidacloprid soil drench at repotting
How do I get rid of spider mites on graptoveria 'acaulis'?
Pale speckled stippling on leaf surfaces; webbing between leaves in advanced infestations Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase airflow; treat on a 5-day cycle for at least three applications