Hello,

I've recently noticed dark spots on the stem and some of them seem to be oozing sap. Not sure if this is an infection or maybe a reaction to poor overwintering conditions (in a balcony; usually >8 deg. C; may have had too many cold drafts).
The Pachypodium currently has a few leaves and they seem unaffected, although it's not growing. The stem doesn't feel soft and there seems to be greenish tissue if I scrape off the dried sap. The spots are mostly on one side of the stem. Do you think they're likely to be caused by bacteria or a fungus?

Thank you,
M.





(The bottom of the stem is dusted with cinnamon. Sorry about that.)

Edit:

I will be replanting it into a smaller pot and lighter soil soon.

The symptoms appear to be a result of mealy bugs or some other small sap-sucking bug infestation. Wiping the plant with a cotton-tipped swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) should take care of any little critters. If they are there, they will be near the new growth areas, under the leaves, and in any little place they can hide.

Please post a photo of the entire plant and its pot.

At this time of the year, what it needs is as much sun it can get. 8C is cold indeed. When it is cold, then I grow them drier. I do not bring out my Pachypodium unless it is at least 10C (50F), and right now my plant is basking in the dry heat outdoors with our ongoing heat wave temps reaching 100F (37C) and higher.

Since you have already dabbed cinnamon, then that should be fine. Just wait patiently for recovery. As long as there is no mushy area, then just be patient.

In the meantime try to give as much light and heat, it loves heat. Do it gradually, position in warm shade area, then into more sun. I cannot see very well your media, I hope it is very gritty and well draining. Is that a glazed container? It can grow there but bear in mind if it is glazed it will hold water a little longer so got to make your media as well draining and gritty as you can. Hopefully that container has drain holes.