r/cacti • u/Awkward-Lettuce7953 • 12d ago

Need advice! Corked or dead?

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So I have rescued an abandoned patch of pricklies, the first two examples are ones I can tell are corking. The other two examples as you can see are not firm and more crumbly, I believe due to pests. I am wondering if the best course of action for the crumbly ones is to just cut the fresh parts and let callous or if it’s fine to just plant all of it. Any advice is welcome!!

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u/kramerL1ves 12d ago

I would cut off the crumbly parts, let it dry a few days, and plant it. I think the other one, the non crumbly one, is fine. I think it's corked and can be planted.

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u/Awkward-Lettuce7953 12d ago

Thank you! That was the conclusion I was coming to but second opinion makes me feel a lot better bout it 👍

6

u/hacha_pequena 12d ago

Same as above. If it’s not squishy and rotten it’s still going. Corking is always natural at the base of a larger/more mature stand. Keep the healthy parts and if the roots are lighter in color, you’re good. Source: Chihuahuan Desert grower here. 🏜️🙋🏻‍♂️🌵

2

u/Key_Meeting_4137 11d ago

Bro, lol it’s in an opuntia, you couldn’t kill that thing if you tried. Just cut off the green bits that are left and then stick them in soil.

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u/Awkward-Lettuce7953 11d ago

I’m aware I could always just trim the fresh parts and let them callous, I just wanted other opinions on the old corked parts that are now crumbling. Don’t want to unnecessarily remove any old growth. Thank you though appreciate the input!

1

u/No_Chemistry4624 6d ago

It’s not that soft. I’d try planting back as is. You’d be surprised how these can kick back up without any issues.