Pest identification
What's eating my graptoveria 'silver star'?
Mealybugs
Signs: White woolly patches at rosette centre and leaf axils; honeydew and sooty mould may follow
Control: Alcohol swab spot treatment followed by neem oil spray; repeat every 7–10 days until clear
Root mealybugs
Signs: Slow unexplained decline; white powdery coating discovered on roots during repotting
Control: Remove from pot, wash roots thoroughly, drench with diluted insecticidal soap, repot in dry mix
Spider mites
Signs: Faint webbing between leaves; leaf surfaces look dull and minutely pitted
Control: Increase humidity marginally; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve room air circulation
Keep graptoveria 'silver star' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Graptoveria 'Silver Star' pests — FAQ
What is eating my graptoveria 'silver star'?
Graptoveria 'Silver Star' is an indoor succulent most commonly troubled by mealybugs, which shelter in its pointed leaf crevices. Spider mites are a secondary risk in heated, dry rooms. Root mealybugs can go undetected for months. Good air circulation, dry watering cycles, and monthly inspections keep this plant healthy.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on graptoveria 'silver star'?
White woolly patches at rosette centre and leaf axils; honeydew and sooty mould may follow Alcohol swab spot treatment followed by neem oil spray; repeat every 7–10 days until clear
How do I get rid of root mealybugs on graptoveria 'silver star'?
Slow unexplained decline; white powdery coating discovered on roots during repotting Remove from pot, wash roots thoroughly, drench with diluted insecticidal soap, repot in dry mix
How do I get rid of spider mites on graptoveria 'silver star'?
Faint webbing between leaves; leaf surfaces look dull and minutely pitted Increase humidity marginally; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve room air circulation