Expert: Greg Simpson - 5/14/2007

Question
I have 2 pieces of property in the Texas Hill Country.  On one property, I have multiple stands of prickly pear that are currently blooming.  These cacti will be either moved or destroyed because they are on a building site. On the other property, I would like to create a cactus/succulent garden in an area where there is very little vegetation.  How and when may I best move these beautiful cactus?

Answer
Charlotte,

Actually now is a good time. You just need to make sure to orient the plants north/south exactly the way the were before they get moved. The reason is that they will sunburn and die if that is reversed. Cacti build up a thicker skin on the south side to protect it. If the north side is placed south, it will be damaged. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg