Expert: Maureen - 2/25/2011

Question
Hi again, Maureen. I successfully completed the surgery. I found the spot of rot had gone all the way through, but there were nice roots. We therfore repotted the 6 " left in a new, clean terra cotta pot. We found the two small spots at the top were just getting started, so removed those easily. That left about 10-12 ' of the gorgeous plant, with no top, or bottom. We put fungicide on it, and left it out to dry, it exposed ends kept warm in newspaper, outside. (we initially forgot and planted it. oops, washed it off). Will the a healed wound be sufficient to replant? or do we wait for some sign of growth? I assume it will need a stake if we plant right away. We are hopeful. Thanks for checking..I wanted to write when we were done, but didn't want to overwhelm you since you are kind enough to volunteer your time. But guess doctors like to hear about their patients. Thanks again, Lesanne

Answer
Dear Leame,

I was afraid of  that.   Good job tho. You can absolutely plant the calloused end, tho I'd wait a couple of weeks at least. Pot it up in a slightly moist soilless mix, not too deep but enough to keep it upright (yes, stake it) and wait, and wait, and wait till you see new growth. Keep it out of direct sun. It can take months.  I generally don't water till i see new growth but occasionally mist.

Don't hesitate to write.  I like to see how people are making out.

Maureen