Expert: Greg Simpson - 8/4/2006

Question
Hi Greg,
I've had my cactus for about 10 years and I want to save it's life.

I'm not sure what type it is, but I found a picture that looks similar to mine
http://www.flowers.vg/flowers/00flower01.shtml?cactus4a01.jpg

I think I may have become overzealous with watering and now my poor cactus is sick. The top is turning dark and I think it may be rotting. It started getting softer and turned a sickly yellow colour. I have left it in stronger light to dry out and I think it may be better today. It seems to be getting harder again and the top where it has been starting to turn dark is firm.

I have read other responses with similar problems and I was about to cut off the top, but I didn't because I think it just may heal itself, since it is firming up again and the colour looks slightly better.

Should I give a few days or will I make it worse? I'm not sure about the cutting. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Tamie

Answer
Dear Tamie,

If it seems to be getting better, let it be. Only water when the soil is dry. If you do want to cut the top off, make sure to use a sharp knife (be VERY careful) and cut an inch or so below the lowest part of the damage. Do not touch the cut area and let heal before resuming watering.

Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg