Cactus/How to make a cactus have branches (bushier)
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Question
We have had this cactus for 3 or 4 years. It has grown from 1' tall to more than 5' tall, as a single stem. How can we get it to have branches and not be such a monolith? Can we get it to grow horizontally and not vertically? Any help will be appreciated.
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Thank you
Jim Williams
some columnar cacti don't branch, you have to love them like they are. To slow growth you can put it in a slightly larger pot, being careful not to over water. I can't see what type it is (if you want to send a close up that would be good). You could cut it with a sterilized knife and see if pups develop around the the calloused wound. I'd probably cut it at that large last segment if you do that. If it's listing put it in a pot that is 1/3 the height of the plant and wider than the pot it's in now, maintaining the same soil line. Stake it until it's stable.
The only way that you can grow that plant horizontally is if you lay it on it's side :-).
You have a beautiful plant.
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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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