Pest identification
What's eating my pachyphytum bracteosum?
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white clusters at leaf bases; sticky excretion on lower leaves; stunted growth
Control: Spot-treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol; spray diluted neem oil across the whole plant weekly
Scale insects
Signs: Hard brown bumps on stems and undersides of leaves; yellowing above feeding sites
Control: Scrape off with a soft brush; apply horticultural oil; repeat every two weeks for 6 weeks
Fungus gnats
Signs: Root damage from larvae in moist soil; adult gnats flying near the pot
Control: Let the top 2 inches of soil dry before re-watering; use sticky yellow traps; drench with BTi
Keep pachyphytum bracteosum pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Pachyphytum bracteosum pests — FAQ
What is eating my pachyphytum bracteosum?
Pachyphytum bracteosum, the Silver Bracts succulent, is an indoor species that mealybugs target most often, concealing themselves between its wide glaucous leaves. Scale insects occasionally appear on stems. Fungus gnats breed in overwatered soil. Dry, bright conditions and monthly checks keep this slow-growing houseplant mostly pest-free.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on pachyphytum bracteosum?
Cottony white clusters at leaf bases; sticky excretion on lower leaves; stunted growth Spot-treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol; spray diluted neem oil across the whole plant weekly
How do I get rid of scale insects on pachyphytum bracteosum?
Hard brown bumps on stems and undersides of leaves; yellowing above feeding sites Scrape off with a soft brush; apply horticultural oil; repeat every two weeks for 6 weeks
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on pachyphytum bracteosum?
Root damage from larvae in moist soil; adult gnats flying near the pot Let the top 2 inches of soil dry before re-watering; use sticky yellow traps; drench with BTi