Expert: Greg Simpson - 3/26/2007

Question
My pedro was purchased as a 13 inch cutting, when it arrived it had a cut half way up like the grower had started to make a cutting and stopped. Anway, I let it dry a little, then I made a mostly sand/ little potting soil mix. I planted the cutting a have rarely watered it. It has been 2 months now and I have no roots, and half of the cactus is turning yellow and sinking in like vampire has bitten it.LOL Please help, and respond quickly. I fear I may be losing my darling cacti.  

Answer
Patrick,

Rooting cactus in the winter months can be tough. However, it should be watered when the soil dries out. Also, you would want to plant the cutting about 2 inches into the soil and keep it out of direct sunlight. It may not be too late, but if it has starting to shrivel, you don't have much time.

Replant, water thoroughly and water again when the soil is dry. Try adding some "Superthrive" to the water (available at Home Depot). It is a rooting hormone that may help. It is kind of expensive, so if you don't feel it is worth the investment, it may root without it. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg