Expert: Greg Simpson - 4/11/2006

Question
I was given a cactus sight unseen. I would very much like to learn how to take care of this cactus. But it is an awful yellow color and some of the tips are dried out. It is presently in a large wooden container with holes drilled into it. The base of the cactus is about a foot across with many arms on it. It also has a jade plant growing out of the center. I know I need to transplant it but I don't want to cause any more harm to it then it already has. I live in the High Desert of California with sandy soil. Please help

Answer
Dear David,

Generally speaking, a cactus turns yellow for the same reasons as any other plant. However, without knowing which variety it is, it is almost impossible to give you any specific advice. Typically, cactus turn yellow from a lack of nitrogen in the soil and/or their may be root damage.

I would get it healthy before transplanting or chances are it won't make it. Use a product called "SuperThrive" which you can get at your local nursery, sometimes at Home Depot too. I'm not sure why, but this product works significanlty better than anything else I've tried. Make sure to follow the directions though.

One thing to remember about the high desert is the cold in winter. Most common cacti and/or succulents will not tolerate cold below freezing. If you can email me a photo, I can identify the plant and give you a little more specific advice about planting it out.

Sincerely,

Greg