What's eating my turbinicarpus schmiedickeanus?

Turbinicarpus schmiedickeanus is a tiny, slow-growing cactus most at risk from root mealybugs, which devastate its minimal root system undetected. Spider mites and fungus gnats are secondary threats in indoor conditions. Early detection through periodic unpotting is the best defense for this delicate species.

Sudden collapse or failure to grow; white woolly masses on roots when unpotted Remove all soil, rinse roots, soak briefly in systemic insecticide solution, repot in sterilised gritty mix

Faint stippling or discolouration on the small cactus body; fine webbing at the base Dab with isopropyl alcohol; treat with dilute neem oil spray away from direct sun

Larvae chew fine root hairs, causing wilting and slowed growth Allow soil to dry fully between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) drench