Expert: Greg Simpson - 9/3/2006

Question
Hello Greg,
Attached you will see a picture of a cactus that we bought and planted about 3 weeks ago. When we bought it it was a beautiful green. Now, it looks yellow toward the bottom and part way up as well. Could the relfection off of the house be giving it too much light - or perhaps it is a water issue? We bougth 2 other of the same cactus when we bought this one, and so far they are fine. They are all planted in the same planter bed.
Thank you very much.

Answer
Dear Willow,

I will wait to see the picture, but generally that will happen because it is being sun burned. Try blocking the area that is yellow woth something opaque and see if the plant starts to return to it's natural color.

If it does, then slowly reduce the size of the sun blocker. Do not water during this period. I will wait to see the picture to give you a more detailed answer.

Sincerely,

Greg