Expert: Greg Simpson - 1/5/2008

Question
I have a succulent that I got when it was tiny and it has since grown much larger.  I moved about a month ago, and now over the last couple days I have noticed that the main stalk is becoming discoloured and soft, and it is moving up the stalk.  

The discolouration is moving up the stalk at an alarming rate, causing all the leaves that it passes to drop.  I am not sure what to do.

Is this plant dying?  If I cut off the healthy part of the main stalk and the other smaller stalks will they root?  I feel time is of the essence here as I really don't want to lose this plant.

Please help!

Answer
Sara,

Very sorry for taking so long to get back to you (forgot to set my vacation notice).

Is this plant dying?  It is rotting.

If I cut off the healthy part of the main stalk and the other smaller stalks will they root? I'm not sure what kind of plant you have, but make sure you make the cut an inch or 2 above the discolored area. Let them heal (dry out) for a few weeks before replanting. And do not reuse the same soil and clean the pot thoroughly (if you are going to reuse it).

If you can, send me a picture of your plant to greg8365@hotmail.com and once I know what it is, I can give you better care instructions. Thanks.

Sincerely,

Greg