Pest identification
What's eating my sempervivum 'commander hay'?
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white residue and honeydew in leaf axils; leaves pale and collapse
Control: Treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol swabs; follow with neem oil; inspect offsets before propagation
Vine weevil
Signs: Sudden plant collapse; grubs found consuming the root crown
Control: Apply nematode drench (Steinernema kraussei) to soil in spring or early autumn
Fungus gnats
Signs: Larvae chew fine roots; persistent adult gnat clouds near soil surface
Control: Switch to a gritty, fast-draining mix; reduce watering frequency; use Bti biological drench
Keep sempervivum 'commander hay' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Sempervivum 'Commander Hay' pests — FAQ
What is eating my sempervivum 'commander hay'?
Sempervivum 'Commander Hay' is a large, robust hen-and-chicks with dark maroon rosettes. Like all Sempervivum, mealybugs are the primary indoor pest, lodging in dense leaf bases. Vine weevil grubs pose a root threat. Overwatered pots invite fungus gnats. Inspect closely at each watering.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on sempervivum 'commander hay'?
Cottony white residue and honeydew in leaf axils; leaves pale and collapse Treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol swabs; follow with neem oil; inspect offsets before propagation
How do I get rid of vine weevil on sempervivum 'commander hay'?
Sudden plant collapse; grubs found consuming the root crown Apply nematode drench (Steinernema kraussei) to soil in spring or early autumn
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on sempervivum 'commander hay'?
Larvae chew fine roots; persistent adult gnat clouds near soil surface Switch to a gritty, fast-draining mix; reduce watering frequency; use Bti biological drench