Expert: Greg Simpson - 3/20/2007

Question
Hello,
We inherited 5 large sauguaros when we purchased our home 14 years ago. Since then, two have suffered disease (root rot), for which they were treated, with the advice of the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. However, we now have one, at least 20 feet tall, with one arm. The whole plant is rotting, has a crack from the top down several feet, has been leaning for some time, and now is leaning even more. I haven't been able to get anywhere with the contact information I have, and don't know where else to go to get help for this cactus. I think it needs to be removed before it falls into our street. I wouldn't know how to begin that project. Can you help me?
Thanks
Lois Pepple


Answer
Lois,

Don't try that on your own. There is nothing more dangerous than trying to fix a bad situation with a 3 or 4 ton cactus. Give Arizona Cactus Sales a call (they are in Chandler). If they can't help you remove or replace the plant, they should be able to point you in the right direction.

Sincerely,

Greg