Expert: Greg Simpson - 3/30/2007

Question
I bought one of those cute little sets of three cactus with the unfortunate fake
flowers hot glued to the tops of each, and I was wondering how to remove
them.  I discovered one way, but it leads to my primary question; Is there any
way to save a cactus which has split completely from its taproot?  I dropped it
immediately after repotting and broke the plant at the soil line (also removing
that stupid flower).  Thanks...

Answer
Kelly,

Yes, just let the broken piece "heal" for a couple of weeks and then replant in a cactus mix type of soil. Water well then don't water again until the soil is dry. It can take up to a couple of months to root so please be patient.

As far as removing the glued on flowers, I do not have a good answer for you. You can try to pry it off with a butter knife. It will probably damage the plant slightly, but at least you will be rid of it. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg