Propagating a 20-Year Cactus from Cuttings After Basal Rot

9-Foot Columnar Cactus Rotting from Base: Take Cuttings Now

20+ year cactus, transplanted last summer, now turning brownish-black from base up in December. Top half still green.

Procedure

1. Cut sections 3–4 inches above discoloration.
2. Let callous 2+ weeks.
3. Pot in small pots with cactus mix, 3 inches deep.
4. Water once; then only when soil dry.
5. Optional: dust cuts with rooting hormone powder.
6. Rooting may take a month+; new growth in a couple months.

Note

Original plant cannot be saved once rot advances this far.