In its South American homeland, the columnar cactus reaches heights of up to 15 meters. When cared for indoors, it doesn't get that tall, but it can be quite large and wide. At the latest when it no longer fits in the room, you can trim it without hesitation. What you have to consider when shortening.
The columnar cactus can grow several meters high
You are welcome to shorten a pillar cactus
The best time to trim a pillar cactus is early spring or early summer. Don't cut it off later in the year as it won't recover as well.
Incidentally, shoots that you cut in the spring can be used very well for propagation.
How to cut the cereus
- If necessary, wrap trunk
- Clean cutting tool
- choose a suitable place
- cut as straight as possible
Which cutting tool is suitable for a pillar cactus depends on the age and thus the thickness of the trunk. If the shoots are not very thick, a sharp knife is usually sufficient. Use a hacksaw to cut thicker logs. If possible, find a spot where the stem is slightly thinner or between two drive links.
You should clean the edges of the knife or saw thoroughly beforehand. Column cacti are very susceptible to fungal spores and bacteria. These penetrate the interfaces of the plant and can cause the leaf cactus to rot.
The cut must be made as straight and clean as possible. Torn and frayed interfaces offer good entry points for bacteria, germs and fungal spores.
Beware of the spikes!
Depending on the species, the columnar cactus has very strong spines. But the fine hairs that some varieties have can also be very uncomfortable for the hands.
Protect your hands with leather gloves when trimming columnar cacti. If the spines are very thick and pointed, simply wrap the trunk with a thick terry towel.
tips
In order to be able to use the cut off parts of the pillar cactus as cuttings for propagation, you must let the interfaces dry for several weeks. It is important that you place the drive pieces as upright as possible and never store them lying down.