Staff Answer
Jul 02, 2021 - 12:38 PM
Yellowing at the base of an Opuntia cactus is fairly serious. I believe rot is the main culprit here. It's possible it's gotten too much water from rain or irrigation. Were there any wounds near the base of of plant when it went into the ground? Did you water immediately after planting? If the answer to either is yes, then it's very likely rot. Same goes if you water it more than once a week.
As far as treatment is concerned, I recommend pulling the cactus up to take a closer look at the base. If this yellow section is wet and squishy, cut it off and throw it away. Make sure the healthy part you're keeping has no sign on the yellowing on it. Leave this healthy part sitting out for a couple of days so the wound heals. When the cut side feels dry and calloused, go ahead and plant it again in a dry, sunny, spot with gritty soil.
It sounds like your already familiar with Opuntia planting procedure, but below is the guide, just in case. I hope this helps and I hope your cactus recovers!
As far as treatment is concerned, I recommend pulling the cactus up to take a closer look at the base. If this yellow section is wet and squishy, cut it off and throw it away. Make sure the healthy part you're keeping has no sign on the yellowing on it. Leave this healthy part sitting out for a couple of days so the wound heals. When the cut side feels dry and calloused, go ahead and plant it again in a dry, sunny, spot with gritty soil.
It sounds like your already familiar with Opuntia planting procedure, but below is the guide, just in case. I hope this helps and I hope your cactus recovers!
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