Expert: Maureen - 4/26/2010

Question
Recently with the winds I've had a 15'-20' saguaro cactus fall in my backyard and I need to have it removed, but have no clue where to start or who to contact. Plus I have two others that I would like to have removed. although they are doing good, one of them are starting to lean into the tree that's planted nearby. what should I do, and where do I start?

Answer
Saguaros are protected so you need a permit to remove or relocate them. I believe the company you choose will take care of that. It is very dangerous to move a 20' Saguaro.  it requires a crane, certified operator, flatbed truck and a crew.  They weigh about 16,000 lbs. I recommend  that you find a certified cacti horticulturist.  Places for you to start are Arizona Dept. of Agriculture 602-542-4631; Desierto Verde, Scottsdale, 480-423-0202 is highly recommended and was one of the first companies to try to save some of the species; Cactus Sales in Chandler, 480-963-1061; and the Cactus Doctor in Pheonix 602-465-0566.

I don't know where you live so I'd start with the Dept. of Agriculture and see if they recommend these places or any others. I don't know where you live, so none of these places may be near you. Ask about companies that may discount if you give them the cacti. When I chatted with some folks in Arizona they did recommend Desierto Verde and another place called My Saguaro but I couldn't find information for that company.

You do need to do something about a leaning Saguaro.  You never know how it will fall, no matter how it's leaning.  There have been fatalities with folks who have tried to remove a large Saguaro on their own.

If I could make a request, please don't have them destroyed.  They are amazing plants that are protected for a reason.

Good luck,

Maureen

5/12 How did you make out?  I am always anxious to get  any new  info on saguaros.