---
title: "I got this fishbone cactus cutting about a week ago. I let it callus…"
description: "I got this fishbone cactus cutting about a week ago. I let it callus over for about four days, then put it in water. It’s been three days since I put it in…"
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/GpJkJG2qS7KZ7LpSwQwhSg/nv1eRF1sVKyjlPQcnF7qYj"
community: "Propagating & Sowing"
author: "Squirrelywhirl"
published: "2025-04-08T19:56:50.328015Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/OeIc-7FiBpeAfau9xNl4yjUZEgh_w4In9g0d_kF2ZYQ/fsB6lu-4ReOMqTNQfmve2w.webp?size=large"
---

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# I got this fishbone cactus cutting about a week ago. I let it callus…

_Posted by Squirrelywhirl on 2025-04-08_

I got this fishbone cactus cutting about a week ago. I let it callus over for about four days, then put it in water. It’s been three days since I put it in water and when I pulled it out to take a look, it has this goo dripping from it. What should I do? Should I leave it alone? Wash it off and try to let it ‘recallus’ for longer? Help!!!

![Attachment 1 of 1](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/OeIc-7FiBpeAfau9xNl4yjUZEgh_w4In9g0d_kF2ZYQ/fsB6lu-4ReOMqTNQfmve2w.webp?size=large)

## 7 comments

### Herbaceous Hanna commented on 2025-04-08

Cactus can ooze or leak goo—but it’s not normal under healthy conditions. If yours is doing that, it might be a sign of damage, rot, or pests.

### Herbaceous Hanna commented on 2025-04-08

Fishbone cacti don’t ooze unless:  
• They’re damaged (bruised, broken, or bitten)  
• They’re experiencing rot  
• Or there’s a pest issue

### Herbaceous Hanna commented on 2025-04-08

Clear or slightly sticky goo from a cracked area?  
• Could be natural sap from a break.  
• Nothing to panic over if it’s a small injury. Just let it callous over.

### Herbaceous Hanna commented on 2025-04-08

Hope this helps!

### Squirrelywhirl commented on 2025-04-08

It’s only oozing at the tips where it was cut to be propagated. Maybe I didn’t let it callus for long enough?

#### Herbaceous Hanna replied on 2025-04-08

When you cut a fishbone cactus, its tissues release sap as a protective measure. Even if most of the cut surface has callused, the very edges or tips might continue to ooze for a little longer. Typical callusing period is 1-2 weeks. So I’d try a little longer :)  
Make sure they’re in a well ventilated air so it can properly dry!

#### Squirrelywhirl replied on 2025-04-08

Oh wow I didn’t know that! Thanks

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