QuestionI just bought my first Dessert Rose and have repotted it in cactus soil. The leaves are turning yellow and dropping. It appears to have spider mites as well. Can you please tell me why the leaves are dropping and how to treat the spider mites. Thanks.
AnswerHi Kim, Dessert Roses do not require hardly any water, they store most of what they need in their spongy stems; the yellowing leaves are probably a combination of the mites and possibly too much irrigation; be careful what you use on the mites, for the plant is very sensitive to any applications made to it. For mites I would simply take the plant outside and gently hose the mites off the leaves and stems by holding the plant tipped on its side (so you don't water the plant itself). Keep the leaves misted to deter future infestations, for mites like a very dry environment. Nick
