Pest identification
What's eating my pachyphytum glutinicaule?
Mealybugs
Signs: White waxy tufts in leaf axils and around stem nodes; affected leaves shrivel prematurely
Control: Swab colonies with 70% isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray to the whole plant and soil surface weekly until clear
Root mealybugs
Signs: Unexplained wilting and stunted growth; white powdery coating on roots visible when the plant is unpotted
Control: Unpot, remove all old compost, rinse roots, dry briefly, repot in fresh succulent mix; apply neem oil or imidacloprid soil drench
Spider mites
Signs: Pale dusty speckling on the plump leaves; fine webbing between leaves in heavy infestations
Control: Wipe leaves with a moist cloth; spray with insecticidal soap; increase air circulation and avoid placing near heat vents
Keep pachyphytum glutinicaule pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Pachyphytum glutinicaule pests — FAQ
What is eating my pachyphytum glutinicaule?
Pachyphytum glutinicaule is a plump-leaved Mexican succulent. Its naturally sticky leaves (the species name means 'sticky-stemmed') can trap dust but do not deter mealybugs, which are its chief pest. Root mealybugs and spider mites are secondary risks. Correct watering and bright light keep this species largely trouble-free.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on pachyphytum glutinicaule?
White waxy tufts in leaf axils and around stem nodes; affected leaves shrivel prematurely Swab colonies with 70% isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray to the whole plant and soil surface weekly until clear
How do I get rid of root mealybugs on pachyphytum glutinicaule?
Unexplained wilting and stunted growth; white powdery coating on roots visible when the plant is unpotted Unpot, remove all old compost, rinse roots, dry briefly, repot in fresh succulent mix; apply neem oil or imidacloprid soil drench
How do I get rid of spider mites on pachyphytum glutinicaule?
Pale dusty speckling on the plump leaves; fine webbing between leaves in heavy infestations Wipe leaves with a moist cloth; spray with insecticidal soap; increase air circulation and avoid placing near heat vents