Question
QUESTION: I need your help.  Over the last 3-4 weeks the 8  foot plant I have had for over the last 20  years is starting to deteriorate.  In the early spring (i reside in Chicago) I re potted the plant, using Shultz Cactus soil and a sterile brand new 14" pot(from a 10" pot that it had been in for over 10  years).  Since each of the upward branches have grown at least 6-9 inches plus the horizontal leaves off each spine during the spring/summer.  So for the last 3-4 week I  have noticed the new growth on the top begin to droop not in any particular direction, towards or away from the sun.....each a different direction.  the plant has been in this exact location for almost three years. In a vaulted Hallway with 15 foot ceilings and 3 sky lights with a slight Western exposure.  Please help???   I have accessed each stalk for root rot and see no evidence. I can send a photo.  I am hopeful and fearful.

Kindly, Erin

ANSWER: Hello Erin!
It looks like your cacti is lacking light. Has it been "gloomy" ever since you obtained the plant? I don't think it was because you repotted your plant. All cacti are succulents and they will tolerate repottings. If you see evidence that the cactus is "wrinkled", it is probably because you are overwatering. It would be helpful if you can send me a picture. Capture your cactus as well as the environment it is in and I would be glad to answer your question :)

I will await your reply, Joan
Good Growing!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------


One of four photos   QUESTION: I have had the plant for over 20 years.  I do not believe I see wrinkling.  Attached is several pictures

Answer
Hello Erin,
I see what the problem is. You disturbed it too much when you repotted your plant in spring. Since then, your plant has not been taking in water from the roots too much. Instead, it has been using the water stored in their stems. There could bee several explanations for this disturbance. Maybe the cactus hasn't adapted well in the new cactus soil. Or maybe the way you transitioned the cactus wasn't well for your plant. But the best prediction I can make is that your plant was in a pot that was too small. That didn't hurt the plant, but the transition to a larger pot was difficult for it. I know this may sound a bit weird, but your cactus preferred the smaller conditions. I know this from my experiences. All my cacti I've had preferred crowded conditions, as well as other of my houseplants. I'm not saying that your cactus shouldn't have been moved to a larger pot (you made the right choice).

It isn't too late to save your cactus. For now, don't make the same mistake everyone has been making. Don't overwater. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. For better results, allow the soil to be dry for a whole 24hr period. This will re-adapt your cactus and encourage it to absorb water from its roots again.

Please let me know if you have further questions, and I would like to help you :)

Good Growing, Joan