What's eating my topsy turvy echeveria?

Echeveria runyonii 'Topsy Turvy', with its upswept silvery-blue leaves, is most often attacked by mealybugs hiding in its unusual leaf channels. Its compact form and waxy coating offer some natural resistance, but mealybugs can go undetected. Fungus gnats and occasional aphids on flower spikes round out the main threats.

White cotton-like deposits in leaf channels and at the stem; slow growth and occasional leaf drop Dab colonies with isopropyl alcohol; apply diluted neem oil to the stem base; repeat weekly until clear

Small flies hovering around the pot; larvae weaken roots in wet compost Allow soil to dry fully between waterings; use gritty cactus mix; drench with Bti if gnats persist

Soft insects massing on flower stalks; honeydew and sooty mold on inflorescence Pinch off affected flower stalks or spray with insecticidal soap; wipe honeydew from leaves with a damp cloth