Common issues

Cacti and succulents don’t suddenly fall apart — there are signs along the way. Catching those signs early can often mean the difference between a quick fix and a full loss.

Wrinkling, discolouration, or shrinking can be normal, but may also signal issues with water, light, or roots. Learning the difference takes time. Not every change is bad — many are natural and harmless. Stay calm, observe, and let the plant show you what it needs.

Feel the base — rubbery means thirsty, soft can mean danger (distinguishing between the two gets easier with time)

If rot is already present — complete mush — then it is usually too late.

Cold or outside prime growing time? That’s when plants are more vulnerable. Hold back on watering during those times.

Underwatering often recovers well with a deep soak and improved conditions. Give the plant time to rehydrate gradually — don’t flood it repeatedly.

Healthy plants grown in the right conditions rarely suffer from pests. But when they do show up, here's what to watch for:

Mealybugs: Look like tiny bits of cotton. These pests feed on sap and damage roots. Small infestations can be squished gently with a toothpick as a first response.

Scale: Hard brown or grey bumps that cling to the plant body and suck nutrients.

We use and recommend a product called Bug Killa by Richgro — a systemic granular pesticide that is highly effective and long-lasting. Best applied during active growth — we use it in spring.

For flare-ups, we use Amgrow Rose Spray, which handles both pests and fungal issues.

Mancozeb is used in autumn and early spring as a fungal preventative.

Prevention is key — strong plants grown in the right conditions are far less likely to have problems. Chemicals cannot compensate for poor cultivation practices.

⚠️ Always follow label instructions and safety guidelines when using pesticides or fungicides.

Fungal infections are usually caused by poor airflow, excess moisture, or old damage that allowed spores to settle in. If you see black spots, soft patches, or sunken lesions, it’s time to act.

🛠️ How to Treat Fungal Issues

• Improve conditions: Increase airflow, reduce humidity, and make sure the plant is getting enough light.
• Don’t overdo it: Once treated, avoid constantly disturbing or inspecting the plant — let it recover in peace.
• Fungicide treatment: We use Amgrow Rose Spray, which covers a range of fungal and pest issues. Mancozeb is used seasonally as a preventative.
• If the infection is severe, it’s often better to cut your losses and dispose of the plant. Heavily infected or sick plants can act as vectors and put the rest of your collection at risk.

Not sure where to start?
Start softly with a good level of shade and work your way up from there.

When light changes suddenly — especially going from shade to sun — plants can burn. Scorch marks may appear white, yellow, or brown. These can be permanent (though some species are incredible healers and, with enough time, you may not see the damage at all). It depends on the severity and species.

Shrinking or retreating into themselves is often a plant’s way of protecting its vital tissues. Let them rest and slowly adjust to better conditions.

Caring for cacti and succulents is a process of learning, adjusting, and finding your rhythm. This guide is just a starting point — real growth comes from time, experience, and observation.

Plants will show you what they like and what they don’t. Over time, you’ll get to know their individual rhythms and preferences.

Mistakes happen, and some losses are part of the journey — even the most experienced growers still lose plants now and then. It’s all part of how we grow and learn.

Here’s to many healthy plants, small victories, and lessons learned along the way.