Saving a Large Rotting Euphorbia trigona

Rescue of a 5-Foot Euphorbia trigona After Cold and Wet Exposure

An indoor Euphorbia trigona left out in cold rain developed soft, mushy, foul-smelling branches. Base is firm and green.

Emergency Surgery

1. Cut off all brown, rotted branches with sterile knife; sterilize between cuts.
2. Dust wounds with fungicide or Rootone.
3. Remove old soil; inspect roots. Trim dead roots.
4. Repot healthy portion in smaller pot with well-draining soilless mix.
5. Do not water! Keep dry, bright indirect light.

Prognosis

Right side may be salvageable. Close-up photos of base requested for further advice.