Expert: Greg Simpson - 4/28/2007

Question
I planted a large ocotillo in Oct. of last year and to date, it has not turned green. It does have one or two small buds on a couple of its branches. Is it possible that I need to clip the ends off to encourage it to bloom?

Thanks Shannon

Answer
Shannon,

Look very closely at the stem. Is there green areas above each thorn? If so, your plant is still alive. If not, it is not. If there is green above each thorn, spray the plant off with water once a week (do not water the roots). after a few weeks, if it is still alive, it should leaf out. Hope this helps,

Sincerely,

Greg