---
title: "Does anybody have any tips for a stagnant pencil cactus? I was given…"
description: "Does anybody have any tips for a stagnant pencil cactus? I was given this almost 2 years ago and there’s been no growth at all. Same with previous owner as…"
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/vOLjreBcQ-OpqrHIhVSc4w/SR04lhkZvSlO9wPnAXpgJX"
community: "The Cactus & Succulent Circle"
author: "Sbeen"
published: "2026-05-14T13:04:05.956895Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/FlH7NH4pwWOlcbMi3QX7P-z2sn2BpOO6P_pd8dq-dIA/_jxPj4nzSIutdQcuVhChag.webp?size=large"
---

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# Does anybody have any tips for a stagnant pencil cactus? I was given…

_Posted by Sbeen on 2026-05-14_

Does anybody have any tips for a stagnant pencil cactus? I was given this almost 2 years ago and there’s been no growth at all. Same with previous owner as well. It doesn’t look dead and is very firm I just don’t know what to do with it.

![Attachment 1 of 1](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/FlH7NH4pwWOlcbMi3QX7P-z2sn2BpOO6P_pd8dq-dIA/_jxPj4nzSIutdQcuVhChag.webp?size=large)

## 5 comments

### Nunyabzwx commented on 2026-05-14

Try changing the soil and give it fertilizer and put it in some sun.

### Mindy commented on 2026-05-14

Mine was similar until I put it outside. They love ☀️

### Vee commented on 2026-05-15

Pencil cactus LOVE full sun and heat, put it in a west facing window to ensure 8-12 hours of full sun and make sure the soil is COMPLETELY dry before a full soak with good drainage, repeat process

### Qbert commented on 2026-05-16

They like full sun (or part sun can work too) and very well draining soil. The planta app can show you how often to water it based on the info you plug in.

### Sbeen commented on 2026-05-28

Thanks everyone. I am trying the outside technique it direct sunlight. Any recommended fertilizer and soil?

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