How to Trim Column Cactus

Column cacti have a cylindrical growth pattern, and some varieties will produce side shoots that develop into branches. You can remove the branches if they are making the plant lopsided. You can also trim the cactus if it is becoming too large. Wear gloves when trimming cacti so you do not get injured by the thorns. Use a saw or knife when cutting the body of the cactus because shears can crush the flesh. Only use shears in a joint.

Things You'll Need

• Rubbing alcohol
• Rag
• Garden shears
• Hand saw or sharp knife

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Dampen a rag with rubbing alcohol. Wipe the blades of the garden shears and hand saw or knife to sterilize them.

   • 2

     Use garden shears to trim column cacti branches back to a knob or joint. To shorten a column cactus, use a hand saw or sharp knife and cut the cactus back to the next growth section.

   • 3

     Cut the column off at the soil level with a saw or knife, if you need to thin a stand. It will not grow back.