How to Care for a Wilting Cactus Plant

Wilting isn't as noticeable in cacti as it is in other types of plants, but they can still suffer from the condition. Wilted cacti may have sunken or shriveled leaves or the plant may look discolored and weak. Flowering tropical cacti may fail to produce flowers when suffering from wilt and desert cacti may drop their needles or grow poorly. Pinpointing the cause of wilt is vital so you can alter your plant care methods to address the problem.

Instructions

- 1
  Check soil moisture every three to five days. Wet soil results in root rot, which can cause wilting. Overly dry soil also causes wilting.
- 2
  Water the cactus when the soil feels just barely moist. Tropical cacti require more water than desert varieties, so their soil shouldn't dry out completely.
- 3
  Place the cactus in an area that receives bright, all-day sunlight and two to four hours of direct morning sun. Too little light causes wilting or leaf discoloration, but too much can scorch the cactus. Desert cacti varieties tolerate longer exposure to direct sun compared to tropical types.
- 4
  Maintain the proper temperature. Keep tropical cacti in a room with a daytime temperature near 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures between 55 and 60. Warm night temperatures can cause bud wilting or drop. Desert cacti tolerate temperatures as high as 90.
- 5
  Repot the cactus into a pot one size larger than its current pot if the plant has filled the pot with roots. Overcrowded roots absorb nutrients and water poorly, which results in wilting and plant decline.

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