Expert: Greg Simpson - 8/28/2007

Question
I got a small orange cactus about 6months ago. He's now about 3in./7cm. tall. We left on vacation for about a month and a half and had someone give it water after one month. when we got back the cactus was fine. but now 2weeks later he has about 2 black spots on him. We were thinking it was from being over watered. At the time we thought we shouold give him a little more water because as a plant we expected it was UNDER watered. What can we do to help my cactus live?

Answer
Vanessa,

Let the soil dry out and watch to see if the spots heal or get larger. If the spots get larger, you may not be able to do anything. Cacti and succulents should always have the soil dry out between waterings. At only 3", it is not large enough to take a cutting. Hopefully it will be OK. Sorry I could not be of more help.

Sincerely,

Greg