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Pests & Diseases Q&A
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Can wrinkly leaves be a sign of root rot in succulents? View answer
Asked 1 ´year ago | Pests & Diseases
How to identify and treat fungus gnats? View answer
Asked 4 ´years ago | Pests & Diseases
SIGNS
Small, black gnats flying slowly and resting on wet soil
Look similar to fruit flies
TREATMENTS
Help soil dry out completely by reducing watering frequency and increasing airflow and sunlight
Make a gnat trap: pour a couple splashes of apple cider vinegar and a few drops of dish soap into a cup, cover with plastic wrap, then poke a finger-sized hole in the plastic; keep near plant
Rep Read more
SIGNS
White, cotton-like buildup in crevices between leaves
Misshapen leaves marked with dents
Significant leaf loss, including top and center leaves
TREATMENTS
First, isolate plant to prevent spread of bugs and repot with new soil
Most effective strategy: spray directly with diluted 50% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) every day until bugs disappear
Introduce ladybugs into your ga Read more
my cactus is turning yellow at the bottom of roots View answer
Asked 4 ´years ago | More Succulents > Cactus
How do I kill fungus gnats View answer
Asked 2 ´years ago | Hardy Succulents > Sempervivum (Hens & Chicks) > Sempervivum 'Roasted Chestnut'
Succulents are extremely resilient plants, but they can be affected by pests and diseases, particularly when grown indoors or kept too wet. When problems do arise, they are often related to mealybugs, aphids, gray mold ( Botrytis ), or fungus gnats. You can find specific information for each of these pests in their own articles in this FAQ, but below are preventative and curative measures that work for general succul Read more
SIGNS
Mass of fuzzy, gray to brown mold spores
Dusty mold spreading from broken, damaged, or dying leaves and stems
TREATMENTS
Remove any dead or dying plant parts (clean scissors with bleach before and after)
Apply a copper soap fungicide every 7-10 days until mold is gone
Reduce watering frequency
Water soil directly and gently shake excess droplets from leaves Read more
