Can I Save My Cactus House Plant From Root Rot?

Overwatering

• The first step in saving a cactus from root rot is to stop watering. As a desert plant, cacti are accustomed to living with little water. Water only when the soil is thoroughly dried out.

Insufficient Drainage

• The sand in a cactus' natural habitat drains water away from the roots. Planting a cactus in soil that doesn't drain will result in roots that stay too wet, especially if they're potted in a pot without drainage holes. Pot cactus in sandy soil, in a pot with adequate drainage, to prevent root rot.

Prevention/Solution

• If your cactus is already suffering from root rot, take the plant out of the pot using heavy leather gloves to protect your hands and wrap the cactus in newspaper or foam. Inspect the roots for green or slimy material. Gently remove this root rot, and then repot in well-draining soil.