My Cactus is Dying HELP!

[hollzeep]

I have a small cactus that I bought from home depot about six months ago. It is no larger than 5 inches tall. I am not sure what kind it is, but it has a small color bulb/ head that is grafted on. I noticed that the stalk is turnig a white color. I seems to be dying or drying out. Could it be too much sun or water? PLEASE HELP ME I LOVE MY LITTLE CACTUS!

[Newt]

Hi Hillzeep,
Sometimes plants will change as they mature and develop hairs or different coloration. Here's a site with some pictures of cactus. Take a look and see if you can id your plant here. Knowing which one will help to know the habits of the plants. You can then do a search at www.google.com using the Latin or botanical name to get more information. Sometimes clicking in 'Images' at google will give you pictures as well.

http://www.theamateursdigest.com/cactfoto.htm

Generally, cactus like full sun and water once the top inch of the soil is dry. Let the water drain and be sure not to leave it sitting in water for more than an hour. If the stem isn't mushy, then I suspect that you aren't overwatering.

Let me know if that is helpful.
Newt

[Newt]

Hi Hollzeep,
I sent you two private messages but they don't show to me. I'm wondering if you got them. Please let me know.

Newt

[Jenna]

Hi Hollzeep,
I have a small cactus that came from Arizona, its in a 3 inch shallow pot.
I was told to give it one teaspoon of water the first of every month, it seems harsh but it has been doing great. I even moved it across country last winter, hauling it in and out of hotels daily for a week. Jenna

[starrleicht]

Wow, Jenna - do you know what kind it is? I even have trouble keeping cactus's alive- that one sounds like the perfect one for my brown thumb, thanks!