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Root Rot in Prickly Pear Cactus
verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team
Prickly Pear is a flat-padded cactus producing edible fruits and pads
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Prickly Pear Cactus care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to root rot in Prickly Pear Cactus. Check each one as a potential cause.
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Water
Very sparingly — once a month or less.
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Soil
Sandy, very well-draining soil.
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Humidity
Very low.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Prickly Pear Cactus
- fiber_manual_recordBrown, mushy roots
- fiber_manual_recordYellowing leaves
- fiber_manual_recordWilting despite moist soil
- fiber_manual_recordFoul smell from soil
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Common causes in Prickly Pear Cactus
- fiber_manual_recordOverwatering
- fiber_manual_recordPoor drainage
- fiber_manual_recordFungal pathogens
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How to diagnose root rot in Prickly Pear Cactus
Remove plant from pot. Healthy roots are white/tan and firm. Rotted roots are brown/black and mushy.
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How to treat root rot in Prickly Pear Cactus
Trim all rotted roots with sterile scissors. Treat with hydrogen peroxide solution. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
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Preventing root rot in Prickly Pear Cactus
Always use pots with drainage holes. Allow soil to partially dry between waterings. Use well-draining compost.