You can trim a columnar cactus
The best time to trim a columnar cactus is early spring or early summer. You shouldn't cut him off later in the year as he won't recover as well.
also read
- Repotting columnar cactus - when and how?
- The columnar cactus is not winter hardy
- Properly caring for columnar cactus - tips for caring for cereus
Incidentally, shoots that you cut in spring can be used very well for propagation.
How to cut the columnar cactus
- If necessary, wrap the trunk
- Clean the cutting tool
- Select a suitable position
- Make the cut as straight as possible
Which cutting tool is suitable for a columnar cactus depends on the age and thus the thickness of the trunk. If the shoots are not yet very thick, a sharp knife is usually sufficient. Use a hacksaw to cut thicker logs. If possible, find a place where the trunk is a bit thinner or between two shoots.
The cutting edges of the knife or saw should be cleaned thoroughly beforehand. Column cacti are very susceptible to fungal spores and bacteria. These penetrate the interfaces of the plant and can cause the leaf cactus to rot.
The cut must be made as straight and clean as possible. Torn and frayed interfaces offer bacteria, germs and fungal spores good entry points.
Beware of the spikes!
Depending on the species, the columnar cactus has very strong spines. But the fine hairs that some varieties have can also be very uncomfortable for the hands.
Protect your hands with leather gloves when trimming columnar cacti. If the spines are very thick and pointed, simply wrap a thick terry towel around the trunk.
Tips
So that you can use the cut off parts of the columnar cactus as cuttings for propagation, you have to let the interfaces dry for several weeks. It is important that you place the shoot pieces as upright as possible and under no circumstances lay them lying down.
