Cactus/smooshed cactus
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Question
i droped my cactus and now the top is smooshed, what can i do? Also as it droped i went to grab it and ended up with needles in my hand any suggestions
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Dear Tori,
That's a bummer! The only thing you can do is cut it back to below the damage with a sterilized knife and brush the top with fungicide. It will callous and hopefully will develop some arms that will disguise the flat top.
Removing needles is always a problem, especially the small ones. I take masking tape and lay it over the area with the needles, gently pressing in and then pulling off. It doesn't always work and sometimes you just have to wait till they work themselves out. I've rarely had one that doesn't come out eventually but you do have to deal with the ouch factor in the meantime. You can also try tweezers, but sometimes you can't actually see the spines as they are so small. Just don't soak your hand. The needles and tissue of your hand will swell and it will complicate things. Keep an eye out for infection.
Sorry i don't have better answers, but both re kind of simple solutions that are unsatisfactory.
Hope this helps.
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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