The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Mealybugs: Isolate the plant and treat with a systemic insecticide or dab affected areas with alcohol-soaked cotton buds.

Root rot: Ensure excellent drainage using gritty compost and water only when the substrate is completely dry.

Red spider mites: Increase humidity around the plant and spray with a horticultural oil or miticide if infestation is severe.

Scale insects: Scrape off visible scales manually and apply a recommended insecticidal soap or systemic treatment.

Overwatering: Reduce watering frequency immediately and repot in fresh, free-draining succulent compost if necessary.