Expert: Greg Simpson - 5/8/2006

Question
I have a pear catus, I think. It's arms are flat and it puts out yellow flowers. The plant looks like it is rotted at the base but the arms look really good and its blooming beautifully. It is in a pot that has become to small an I don't know how to get it out.I mean, you can't see any dirt because it is so full of plant. Will it grow in the yard and how big do they get.  

Answer
Dear Elizabeth,

If the base of the plant is soft & mushy, you are correct. Opuntia are very easy to root, so cutting off the rotted part and repotting should be fairly easy. Just make sure to let thr plant "heal" for at least a week after cutting before replanting.

Most Opuntia are frost tolerant, but if you live in a temperate climate, it mat freeze. Without knowing which variety it is, there is no way to tell how much cold it will take.

Sincerely,

Greg