Expert: Greg Simpson - 10/24/2007

Question
Hello,  I have a cactus and I don't know what kind it is but I have had it for four years and it has doubled in size.  It is approximately 8' tall now and some of the tallest parts are falling over and growing toward the floor.  I checked in the center of the bend and discovered that the skin is still very firm.  Is it possible to feed it so well that it grows to fast?  Any advice you have to offer would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Jamie,

Some cacti do grow very quickly, however the problem with your plant may be a lack of light. If it is an indoor cactus, that is a very good possibility. The reason is that a lack of light causes the plant to be thinner and then it cannot support its own weight. The only way to help an indoor cactus is to add a "grow lamp" above your plant and make sure your cactus is getting at least 15 hours per day of light. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg