What Is Wrong With My Cactus?

Cactus Problems

• Many cactus problems stem from some kind of fungal or bacterial infection. Common symptoms of this kind of infection include spotting of various colors, such as yellow, brown, gray or black. These spots or lesions are often fungal growth infecting the cactus. You may also notice wilting in the cactus stems or flowers, slimy areas of the cactus that appear moist all the time or flowers or spines falling from your cactus without a pattern or reason. All of these symptoms are indicative of a greater problem.

Handling Rotting Cacti

• When you begin to notice infections that include a fungus or bacterial problem, you must act immediately to isolate the issue. If a cactus is completely covered with any of the lesions or infections, you must say goodbye and dispose of it away from any healthy plants, or it will simply spread the infection. For cacti isolated or for smaller infected areas, carefully cut away the infected areas using a sharp knife or pruning tool. Wear protective gloves; as much as you love your cactus, it will still sting you. Remove all infected material, and dispose of it far away from healthy plants or the infection will spread out of control.

Repotting

• Repotting is one of the best ways to keep your cactus healthy and protect it from fungal infections and other damage. Many cactus growers advise that you don't even have to use fertilizer as long as you repot your cactus each year. Use high-quality cactus soil in your pot when you transplant your cactus. Use a pot that is the same size, or only 3 to 4 inches larger, than the one your cactus is currently growing in, so that you don't shock it with a completely new environment. Using fresh soil will remove any fungus or bacteria that has built up in the dirt. Dispose of old dirt; do not use it again.

Watering

• Watering is the other key to healthy cactus growth. Cacti are used to growing in arid, low-water areas and are therefore easily damaged by high humidity or excessive watering. Let your cactus dry out a little bit in between watering; only water when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. This low-moisture condition inhibits any mold growth and keeps the cactus thriving. Water with room-temperature water to avoid shocking the cactus with cold.