Expert: Greg Simpson - 11/22/2005

Question
Is it too late to save a cactus after you have watered it too much and it is starting to go soft.
I have a grafted cactus and the long base plant is going soft and turning black. The top plant is still ok and the tips look like new growth because they are a lighter green color. I have sat it closer to my wood stove to try and dry it out. What do you think?  Darlene bdifarms@hotmail.com  

Answer
Dear Darlene,

It is probably too late for both. The grafted plant won't grow on its own roots very well, but you can give it a try. Cut the host plant just below the scoin (grafted plant) and let it dry out.

Then move it too some new soil (not the same pot it was in) and do not plant too deeply. Keep the soil moist but not wet. If it takes root, you will notice some new growth in a few months. Hopefully this will help.

Sincerely,

Greg