Pest identification
What's eating my sempervivum 'killer'?
Mealybugs
Signs: White waxy filaments and sticky residue between leaf layers; distorted new growth
Control: Dab infested areas with alcohol; spray entire plant with diluted neem oil; repeat weekly
Vine weevil
Signs: Rosettes easily pull free from soil; white larvae visible eating roots
Control: Drench soil with Steinernema kraussei nematodes; repot into fresh gritty medium
Fungus gnats
Signs: Root hair loss from larvae feeding; slow, weak growth in young offsets
Control: Water sparingly; top-dress with coarse grit; apply Bti drench to break larval cycle
Keep sempervivum 'killer' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Sempervivum 'Killer' pests — FAQ
What is eating my sempervivum 'killer'?
Sempervivum 'Killer' is a compact, quick-offsetting cultivar. Despite its name, it is not immune to pests — mealybugs are the top threat, hiding between the closely packed leaves. Vine weevil grubs silently devour roots. Keeping pots in bright, airy spots and using well-draining gritty compost deters most pest issues.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on sempervivum 'killer'?
White waxy filaments and sticky residue between leaf layers; distorted new growth Dab infested areas with alcohol; spray entire plant with diluted neem oil; repeat weekly
How do I get rid of vine weevil on sempervivum 'killer'?
Rosettes easily pull free from soil; white larvae visible eating roots Drench soil with Steinernema kraussei nematodes; repot into fresh gritty medium
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on sempervivum 'killer'?
Root hair loss from larvae feeding; slow, weak growth in young offsets Water sparingly; top-dress with coarse grit; apply Bti drench to break larval cycle