San Pedro Cutting Rotting in Winter: Emergency Replant

Winter Rooting Is Hard

13-inch Trichocereus cutting, planted in sand/soil, rarely watered, 2 months no roots, now yellowing/shriveling from base ("vampire bite").

Immediate Action

1. Unpot; inspect. Cut 2+ inches above highest rot (clean knife, alcohol between cuts).
2. Replant deeper: 2 inches into fresh, dry cactus mix.
3. Water thoroughly NOW. Then only when dry.
4. Add Superthrive (vitamin B1 + hormones) to water – may stimulate roots.
5. Bright shade, warm (70°F+).

Why It Failed

• Winter dormancy = no root growth.
• Underwatering during active callusing phase.
• Sand-only mix holds no moisture for emerging roots.

Still Possible

If firm tissue remains, it can root as days lengthen. But act fast – shriveling means reserves depleting.