Argentine Giant (Echinopsis candicans)

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Xenomorf Phoenix, AZ(Zone 9b) Dec 07, 2005

Argentine Giant
Echinopsis candicans

This is Echinopsis candicans var. candicans, zone 9b, full sun

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Post #1911550
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maureen1952 Worcester, MA Aug 30, 2010

Dear Xeno,

A friend has a lovely Argentine cactus but " Some of the arms are very large and thick, and have started pressing up against our house. I'm afraid it might damage the stucco or push too hard against the railing. It is also protruding into the sidewalk and might cause harm to visitors. Can these be safely removed without harming me or the plant? " I don't know the answers to this question. Can you give me some suggestions?

Thanks,

Maureen

PS: Her plant is larger than the one in your photo and does really lean against the house. Here's a photo.

Thumbnail by maureen1952
Post #8071061
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Xenomorf Phoenix, AZ(Zone 9b) Aug 30, 2010

Yes, you can safely cut one branch off without hurting the rest of the plant. I usually wrap an old piece of carpet or an old towel around the branch to move it.

Post #8071257
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maureen1952 Worcester, MA Aug 30, 2010

Thanks. Hosw much do those arms weigh? When you cut the branch do you do anything to the wound? How and where do you start a cutting from it?

Post #8071309
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Xenomorf Phoenix, AZ(Zone 9b) Aug 30, 2010

Some of the branches can be heavy, but that is all relative. They are full of pulp and water. Make sure the wound does not stay moist or wet so it can callous over. Try and cut the arm as close to the base as possible. If you choose, you can coat the wound with sulphur available at your local gardening store, but most of the time I do not use sulphur. Use a clean knife.

Post #8071340
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maureen1952 Worcester, MA Sep 05, 2010

Thanks a million, Xeno.
Maureen

Post #8081500
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