Expert: Greg Simpson - 10/30/2006

Question
My cereus is showing a yellowish stem and getting mushy from the soil up. I don't want to lose it and think that propogation might be my only answer. What's the best method?

Answer
Dear Dalin,

Take a cutting about 6 inches above the rotted area. If there is any dark spots in the cross section of the plant, make another cut about 2 inches higher, but only after you clean the knife with alcohol.

Let it heal for roughly 2 weeks prior to planting. Make sure to use new soil and water only when the soil is dry. Also, keep the cuttings out of direct sunlight until they root, which can take a month or more.

Hope this helps.

Greg