How to Prune a Cholla Cactus

Cholla cacti include 20 different species in the Opuntia genus, all found in the North American deserts. Cholla cacti are shrubby and have spiky stems. They can range from 1 foot to 15 feet depending on the cultivar. Most cholla cacti bloom in orange or greenish flowers from April to June. Like most other cacti, chollas are difficult to trim because they can be sharp. If your cholla is growing too close to a place people walk, it is likely time to trim it back.

Things You'll Need

• Long-handled pruners
• Leather gloves
• Leather boots
• Shovel
• Trash bag
• Trash can

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Wear leather gloves and boots when working with a cactus to prevent injury.

   • 2

     Use pruners with long handles or those designed specifically for cacti to trim back your chollas. These will allow you to keep your distance from the cactus without exposing yourself to its spikes.

   • 3

     Take care when trimming your cholla, cutting back only the sections that must be removed.

   • 4

     Rake up the pieces of the cactus you have cut and use a shovel to collect them. Place them in a trash can or trash bag for disposal.