Expert: Greg Simpson - 7/20/2006

Question
We have a eight foot tall catcus..straight up ( no arms) with many spines. Sorry I don't know the name of it but a common variety.   It is hitting the ceiling so we would like to know if we could cut it shorter... would it grow arms or would we kill it. HELP     Thank you.

Answer
Dear Mae,

Cutting it should not kill the plant and yes, it should grow arms from the point that it is cut. There is always a slim chance that it could be infected or rot as a result of taking a cutting, but that would be rare. You can also repot the cutting and start another plant if you like. Just make sure that you let it heal prior to replanting. Good luck!

Sincerely,

Greg