Mexican Fence Post Beetle Damage: Bud Propagation Rescue

Beetle Damage Reality

Blackened, eaten base + failed paste treatment = advanced infestation. Plant is fading fast.

Bud Rescue Protocol

1. Cut central bud cleanly at connection (sterile knife).
2. Do not damage bud tissue.
3. Place in east window at room temp.
4. Wait 1 week for callous (hard bark formation).
5. Pot in moist cactus soil with drainage.
6. No water until soil dry 2 days.
7. Then move to full sun.

Outcome

If roots form, plant establishes in pot, then can go in ground. Original plant likely lost, but genetics preserved.