Can I save this cactus and how?

[Notagreenthumb]

So I received this cactus two days ago, I am in North Carolina. This plant has been outside for probably the last two months. So far I have unpotted it and begun to dry it. I watched a few videos and read articles on how to save it, but I would like some first-hand advice. Any and all advice would be appreciated.

[Aztekium123]

I don't know your feelings for this plant. If I were to handle it, I think this variety is very easy to find. Since it has already broken and is very serious. It would be better to buy another plant of this variety.

[jerrytheplater]

Agree with Aztekium123, the rot has reached the growing tip. It is too far gone. Start over. Don't worry, a lot of us have killed more than one cactus as we began. I know I've killed some even now.

Better question is: Its been outside since February in NC? How cold did it get down to? I suspect it was way too cold for your plant. Was it protected from rain? Did it stay too wet while cold?

[Steve Johnson]

The more pointed question here -- where did your cactus come from? The answer might be instructive.

[Notagreenthumb]

I don't know your feelings for this plant. If I were to handle it, I think this variety is very easy to find. Since it has already broken and is very serious. It would be better to buy another plant of this variety.

It does have some sentimental value and I was more looking to see if I could save it as a challenge and what the next steps would be

[Notagreenthumb]

Agree with Aztekium123, the rot has reached the growing tip. It is too far gone. Start over. Don't worry, a lot of us have killed more than one cactus as we began. I know I've killed some even now.

Better question is: Its been outside since February in NC? How cold did it get down to? I suspect it was way too cold for your plant. Was it protected from rain? Did it stay too wet while cold?

If it were possible to save how would I do it, even if it doesn't look possible. Yes it was outside since February due to some people moving and it was under a deck, so not quite protected from the rain and it was outside. the entire time

[Notagreenthumb]

The more pointed question here -- where did your cactus come from? The answer might be instructive.

I have no idea unfortunately

[jerrytheplater]

If you wanted to save it you'd have to cut off all the rot back to green flesh. The sooner the better. That rot will continue while you sleep. You may not have enough healthy plant left, one entire side is rotted up to the apex, the growing point. After cutting off all rot, let it dry, place in a bright area. No water. Wait to see if it sends out roots. It does not look like that would work. But try and lay the plant out horizontally. Maybe it would root that way and even make a pup off of an aerole.

You could try using a fungicide on the cut surfaces if you can get back to all green. Put it on the fresh surface. Sulfur can work too. Use a rooting hormone -Rootone is one. Hormex is another. But, if you don't have any of either, don't wait for it. Cut the rot right after reading this. Time is of the essence.

I have heard of people grafting aeroles, but I've never done it and don't know if you could. That is way more advanced than me.

[Steve Johnson]

The more pointed question here -- where did your cactus come from? The answer might be instructive.

I have no idea unfortunately.

Suppose I should be more blunt about it -- who sent you a cactus that wasn't being kept completely dry in winter? Sorry, but the plant wasn't treated well before you got it, and IMO what you have left can't be saved.

[jerrytheplater]

Suppose I should be more blunt about it -- who sent you a cactus that wasn't being kept completely dry in winter? Sorry, but the plant wasn't treated well before you got it, and IMO what you have left can't be saved.

We were all there once Steve. I do agree with you though. I doubt it can be saved. It may have even seen frosts while wet. But the OP says "Notagreenthumb". Here's a learning experience.

[Steve Johnson]

Suppose I should be more blunt about it -- who sent you a cactus that wasn't being kept completely dry in winter? Sorry, but the plant wasn't treated well before you got it, and IMO what you have left can't be saved.

We were all there once Steve. I do agree with you though. I doubt it can be saved. It may have even seen frosts while wet. But the OP says "Notagreenthumb". Here's a learning experience.

Totally agree, and I sure was there when I fell in love with cacti at the tender age of 12 back in 1970. Learning from our mistakes is still learning as long as we heed the lessons.