Expert: Greg Simpson - 5/16/2007

Question
I live in West Valley city, Utah (zone 6). Last August I bought a Utah native Prickly Pear Cactus from Western Gardens. I have not had time to plant it so I have had it indoors since then until about a week ago. I still have not got around to planting it but I thought it could use some sun. After about two or three days it started to become weak and lean to one side. I have brought it back indoors for now in case it was weather related.
Why is it doing this and how do I fix it?


Answer
Matt,

Being inside has changed your plant. It is no longer able to take direct sunlight without getting sunburned. The only way to fix it is to re-acclimate it to direct sunlight. Pick a spot outside that will recieve shade from about noon on. Make sure you water your plant at least once every 2 weeks. Every couple of weeks, move your plant out a little farther to give it more hours of sunlight. Make sure you keep the side of the plant that is facing south, facing south. Otherwise your plant will sunburn. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg