Planta
Back to Pests, diseases and problems

I was gifted this cactus without knowing much about them, it’s… | Pests, diseases and problems | Planta community

Jenny

I was gifted this cactus without knowing much about them, it’s survived perfectly well for alt least 2 years, had 4 pillars, but all have rotted and died! What happened and is there a way for the root system to survive? TIA!

Attachment 1 of 1
0 likes 3 comments

3 comments

  1. fuey

    The soil looks too compact for a cactus, retaining too much moisture. Now I’m no cactus expert (i do better with tropical things), but I was told to use cactus soil with perlite and all purpose mixed together. I did my euphorbia at about 1/2-2/3 cactus soil and the rest split between perlite and all purpose. You can also ask AI to give you a good soil mix, he’s pretty smart

    0 likes
  2. DanishGramma

    You would have better luck by slicing off the top and rooting it. Let the cut heal for a few days then set it on some dry soil. If you can, go to YouTube and watch a few videos on best ways to do this. I like to treat the cut with sulfur and rooting powder. Good luck 🍀

    0 likes
  3. Jenny

    Thanks you all! I never repotted this plant since I got it because 1. I didn’t know enough about cacti to be confident and 2. I admit I’ve neglected it a little! Thanks for the tip about soil and the fungicide. I’ll give both a try (for this and other plants!), and I have saved (hopefully) the top and I’m letting it callous currently so fingers crossed! Thanks again!

    0 likes