cutting a cactus?

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I have some flowering cactus. I don't know specifically what they are called. They have a tall green part, then at the top of the cactus is a flowering ball of color. The color is all faded and is pretty obvious it's dead or something. How do I go about cutting that part off, and is that a good idea? I'd greatly appreciate any advice. Thanks!

Cactus are are hardy bunch, are are rather forgiving when it comes to chopping off the dead flowers. In fact, they will thank you for it next year, with a better show of flowers.

Gently remove the dead flower heads, taking care not to disturb the rest of the plant. They should just 'pop' off in your hand, when you bend the flower stalk back on itself. If not, grab a pair of scissors/pruning shears to complete the job.

I like to return any clippings(including flowers) back to the plant, so just drop the dead flowers onto the ground underneath the cactus. Water in the new 'flower mulch' , then water as per usual.

Next year you should have an even better display of flowers.


If this was helpful, perhaps you would like a free subscription to my ezine:
gardentricks ??

http://gardentricks.com

Cheers, Sylvana