Expert: Greg Simpson - 2/9/2007

Question
My Peruvian Apple cactus was recently damaged from cold and snow.  The upper parts of the columns appear to be rotting.  Can I cut off and seal in some way to save the plant?  I have had difficulty finding styrofoam cups large enough to cover the tops in the cold.  Hope you can help. Thanks.  Mary

Answer
Mary,

I would wait ( as I am right now because of a very hard freeze we had here in Phoenix). Once you are sure there will be no more freezes, then you can cut off the dead parts. The dead parts will prevent further damage.

I will be trimming up my plants here in another few weeks. As for styrofoam cups, if your plant is very thick, use a Styrofoam bowl or just use an old towel, which will be just as effective. However, if it gets too cold like it did here, nothing will stop the damage. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg