Question
Argentine Giant
We live near Phoenix, Arizona and have a beautiful Argentine Giant in our front yard. Some of the arms are very large and thick, and have started pressing up against our house. I'm afraid it might damage the stucco or push too hard against the railing. It is also protruding into the sidewalk and might cause harm to visitors. Can these be safely removed without harming me or the plant? Thanks for volunteering to help us with our cactus problems!
AnswerDear Jessica,
You can remove the arms. I'd get a piece of rug to wrap around the arm you are removing to protect you and the plant. Then cut it at the base and pull it away with the rug. Stay away from the spines.
If you do decide to try this yourself please have a friend help. The arms can be quite heavy and fibrous where they need to be cut.
The other option is to look up a cactus horticulturalist or call the University of Arizona and ask them to recommend someone. That way you know that both you and the plant are safe. It is a speciality.
Good luck,
maureen
