Cactus/Cactus
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Question
Hello! We have had this cactus for 5 years. It has been growing and doing fine. However, the past couple of weeks, we have noticed that the bottom half - quarter of the plant, it is about 3 ft tall, looks brown like it is dying. We have done nothing different in care. Help!!!!!
Dear Carol,
Not seeing it, I'd guess it is corking which a natural occurence as cacti get older, especially in columnar cacti. The base gets a tad thicker and brown. As long as the base is firm and there are no cracks or oozing, I wouldn't worry about it. If you are really concerned (and haven't repotted in a couple of years), take it out of the pot and look at the roots. If they are white without any bugs and happy looking, it's fine.
If you send me a picture I can take a look at it. Do you know what kind of cactus it is?
Maureen
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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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