Growing a cactus indoors or out can create visual interest and a feel reminiscent of a dry, rugged landscape. However, while many cacti grow well when planted in the ground in a preferred climate, container-grown cacti can sometimes begin to wilt as a sign that they are either receiving too much water or not enough. You can fix a wilting cactus by improving your soil and changing your watering schedule.
Step 1
Feel the soil around the base of your cactus for wetness. Water quantity or frequency is the issue if the soil is powdery and dry. Proceed to Step 2.
If the soil is overly wet, then an excess of water is the cause of the wilting, and you will need to follow steps 3 to 5.
Step 2
Water dry soil using 1/2 cup of water for every 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter of the pot. For example, an 8-inch (20 cm) pot would require a cup of water. Supply this quantity of water weekly from spring to fall, but provide this amount every 3 to 4 weeks during the winter.
Step 3
Ease the cactus from the soggy soil container and remove any excess soil to expose the roots. Inspect the plant roots to see if they appear firm and white or have turned brown and mushy. Cut off any rotten mushy roots using a clean knife.
Step 4
Rinse out and wash the old pot or use a new pot no more than 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) larger. Fill the pot with soil for cacti.
Step 5
Plant the wilting cactus into the center of the prepared pot at an equal depth to how it was previously planted. Leave the plant unwatered for one week. Then, resume watering according to Step 2 for quantity and frequency during the year.
Source: hunker.com
Links
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus