What's eating my portulaca grandiflora 'sundial mango'?

Portulaca 'Sundial Mango' is a drought-tolerant succulent-leafed annual with relatively few pest problems. Aphids occasionally target flower buds. In humid or overwatered conditions, fungus gnats breed in compost. Thrips can damage flowers. The biggest real threat to Portulaca is overwatering and grey mould (Botrytis) — not insects.

Small soft insects on flower stems and buds; sticky residue; reduced flower production. Spray with insecticidal soap or a diluted neem oil solution. A single treatment usually suffices given the plant's robust constitution.

Silvery streaks or flecking on petals; flowers distorted or fail to open fully; tiny dark insects visible in blooms. Remove and dispose of damaged flowers; spray with spinosad or insecticidal soap early in the morning when thrips are active.

Small dark flies hovering around compost; larvae feed on roots in wet soil, causing wilting in young plants. Allow compost to dry out between waterings — the most effective control for Portulaca. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) drench or use sticky yellow traps.