About Joan Expertise Prickly pear, saguaro, barrel cactus, house cacti... You name it! I will answer all your questions regarding cacti such as winter care, propagation, watering, and indoor care. I will also answer questions on edible cacti (for humans or pets) and identification. In addition, I may answer questions on other succulent plants, such as the agave.
Experience Due to the arid climate here in Nevada, I grew up planting cacti and shrubs to design my landscapes. As years went on, I learned the different ways on taking care of these amazing cacti, especially how to propagate them.
Education/Credentials During the past few years, I have tried out many methods in growing cacti, especially when it comes to propagation. I learned the dangers of over-watering, and have researched that people often make common mistakes. That is why I joined to be part of AllExperts.
Question QUESTION: I recently cut a pad from a prickly pear and planted it. It has been in the pot for about 2 months under artificial lighting and doing well. Recently it started growing 2 new pads out of the top, but I am now noticing that the top of the pad is turning a bit yellow and shriveling up. Anything I can do. Wondered if it is from the stress of the 2 new pads starting to grow from the top. (The dotted black line in picture is from a marker I used to mark the spread of the withering). Thanks! IMAGE: Prickly Pear
ANSWER: Hello Wayne,
The new buds are okay, but the yellow parts is not. Can you tell me the soil type and how much you water it?
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QUESTION: The soil is miracle grow potting mix. I have been watering it every 2 weeks. It takes the soil about 3-5 days to dry out after watering. The yellow part of the cactus is really hard almost like the tissue inside has dried up.
Answer Hello Wayne,
This is strange; I've never seen something happen like this. You may be right, the cactus buds may be taking energy away. If you give it plenty of light, this shouldn't of happened. What lighting are you using? Since this is a prickly pear cutting that has now rooted, I strongly suggest you take it outside where it will recieve direct sunlight for atleast 5 hours.
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