Published By: Sohamhalder227

Is cactus rotting in your home? Here are easy curative measures

Except for severe damage, a rotting cactus can be saved if followed strict measurements.

'Low maintenance, is possibly the most popular quote you will keep on listening to while buying a cactus. Over the years, cactus has become a famous option to gift to someone. Undeniably, it requires low maintenance than other plants. However, you might come across several instances where cactus plants start rotting. But, can you save a rotting cactus? The answer is both yes and no depending on the extent of the damage. Go through this article to know some easy steps to save a rotting cactus.

Environmental setup required for optimum cactus growth:

Cactus, a remarkable succulent plant species need well-drained soil and sunlight to grow along with some amount of moisture. The temperature range of 21-24 degreescelsius is ideal for cactus growth.

Reasons behind rotting cactus:

Well, the reasons are numerous. Mostly, the surrounding climate is a major threat to cactus growth. Pests like whitefly, a sucking insect are extremely bad for cactus. Also, cactus is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases when Moisture is pretty high. As cactus is a potted plant, proper drainage is required to help them grow. Even, an open wound can cause serious problems to cactus. Mostly, the soft spots get affected due to pest attacks.

How to solve the issue of cactus rotting?

When visible, Cactus rot must be solved quickly to prevent the spread as well as without affecting the vigor of the plant. The visible symptoms of rotting cactus are discolored scabs, black dots on the cacti's skin, small sunken spots, fruiting bodies around soft areas, and so on. Usually, your plant becomes soft and mushy after a few days of microbial attack. The best possible way to prevent the spread of infection is to cut the injured part. Cut until you see fresh flesh. Mostly, the Cactus plant responds well after cutting the diseased part. Always use a sharp and sterile knife to remove the damaged flesh. Cut in a way so that it dries out fast. After cutting, do not pour water immediately from the top. If rotting happens at the stem or tip of the cactus, use pruning shears to remove the portion. You can add some powdered sulfur to enhance the recovery of the injured part. Wait for a few days, you will observe multiple new stems coming out from that part. Always check the moisture level during recovery. If the rotting starts from the root, it's bad news. Because rotting in the root indicates a dying cactus. The only option you can do is change the pot. Wash the root part and place them in a new pot. Add some sterile soil and see if it rejuvenates.

Always remember that rotting can harm any part of the cactus. You must check for any mechanical injury on the plant regularly. So, take proper precautions.