Expert: Greg Simpson - 10/8/2007

Question
Hello, I have a cactus and it is starting to turn brown/soft over a good portion of the base of it.  From reading some other questions it appears as though I may be over-watering it?  What should I do to keep it from completely dying?
Thanks,

Answer
Tracy,

At this point, the only way to save it is to cut off the non rotted part. If you want to do this, make the cut about 6 above the rotted part. Let it sit for a couple of weeks before replanting. Plant it in "cactus mix" type soil (available from most nurseries), and water. Let it dry out between watering (a rule of thumb for most cacti). If it roots, it may take a month or so this time of year.

Hope this helps, and let me know if you have any other questions.

Sincerely,

Greg