Expert: Greg Simpson - 7/22/2007

Question
I have a 10' saguaro that is starting to lean. What can I do to prevent this from continuing.

Thank you,
Bill Harris

Answer
Bill,

You can use 2x4's to keep it up straight. Wrap the end of the 2x4 in a piece of old carpet (so it won't damage the plant) and place it at an angle to the cactus so that the space looks like a triangle.

I would use two 2x4's spaced apart on the side it is leaning towards. If you want to straighten it up, put the 2x4's in position, dig a small hole (about 8" deep) directly opposite the direction the plant is leaning. Using an old garden hose, wrap the hose around the cactus mid way up the plant and pull the cactus up straight. The 2x4's should fall into position as you do this. DO NOT PULL IT TOO FAR! Only enough to straighten it.

If you would rather not try this yourself, contact a local nursery or AZ Cactus Sales if you are in the Phoenix area. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg