Cactus/paddle cactus fungus
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Question
white, fungus like growth, covers much of the cactus. what should I do?
It's hard to say what you have with out a picture, but here are a few possibilities: The most common pests that affect succulents (kalanchole isn't a cactus) are mealy bugs, root mealy bugs, aphids and scale. I have a picture of the last and will include it. These insects secrete a substance called honeydew which allows fungal spores to attach. If the plant is covered with a fungal growth it is very hard to treat and you are likely to need a new plant. If you want to try to treat, scrape, or with a large infestation, try to hose the damage off, unpot and wash the roots, cutting off an y dead ones, pot in new well draining soil with a bit of insecticide/ fungicide and watch for any signs of new infestation. Be sure to isolate you plant as well. Then spray with an insecticide/fungicide at the first sign of any disease as needed.
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Succulents attract insects/fungi when they are over watered, don't have enough sun or are in a soil that doesn't drain rapidly. In the case of your plant the leaves have a nice powdery finish called a "bloom". No possibility this this is your problem?
Hope this helps. If you could send me a picture that would be great.
Maureen
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Maureen
Expertise
I can answer questions regarding the care and propagation of cactus and succulents and would actually group these together as folks often mistake one for the other and often their care is quite different. I also have a cold hardy cactus and succulent garden that has been quite successful. The subject in regard to classification of type is enormous and I wouldn't be able to answer all questions by any means. It is really IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE A PHOTO if at all possible and LET ME KNOW WHERE YOU ARE FROM, especially in terms of climate.
Experience
I have learned by reading books, by trial and error and by consulting with folks with much more knowledge. I have primarily grown C&S for the last 20 years.
Organizations
Cactus and Succulent Society of Massachusetts.
Education/Credentials
No formal training. See experience.
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