What's eating my ruby necklace?

Ruby Necklace (Othonna capensis) is a drought-tolerant succulent trailing plant. Its biggest pest threat is mealybugs, which colonise the fleshy stems and leaf bases. Aphids sometimes cluster on new growth, and overwatered plants attract fungus gnats. Spider mites are possible in hot, dry indoor air. Good drainage and bright light keep this plant robust.

White cottony masses at stem joints and leaf bases; ruby-coloured stems may show yellowing where insects feed Dab individuals with a 70% isopropyl alcohol swab; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; repeat every 2 weeks

Soft green or black clusters on tender new stem tips; sticky honeydew and leaf distortion Blast off with water; apply insecticidal soap spray; check new growth weekly during spring and summer

Larvae in overwatered succulent compost damage shallow roots; adults are a nuisance indicator of excess moisture Allow soil to dry thoroughly between waterings; use a gritty, well-draining mix; apply yellow sticky traps