What to Do When the Bottom of a Cactus Wrinkles and Shrivels
As a classic succulent plant, the wrinkling and shriveling of the bottom of a cactus is a common warning sign during the maintenance process. When the cactus becomes soft and the base shrinks, it often indicates that the plant is in a state of survival crisis. This article will systematically analyze four typical causes and corresponding emergency measures to help plant enthusiasts accurately diagnose the illness and take timely and correct rescue actions.
One: Drainage and Root Pruning to Save Root Rot Crisis
Mechanism of Root Rot Due to Waterlogging
Cacti native to deserts have超强 water storage capacity, but their roots are extremely sensitive to waterlogging. When the soil moisture level is consistently >40%, root cells will die due to lack of oxygen, initially presenting as bottom wrinkling and shriveling, and then developing into overall rot.
Staged Emergency Plan
Immediate pot removal is required after detecting waterlogging: 1. Mild rot (<1/3 of the roots): Use a sterilized scalpel to remove blackened roots, then let it dry for 3 days before replanting with coarse sand (particle size 2-3mm). 2. Severe rot (>1/3 of the roots): It is recommended to cut healthy stem segments for propagation. 3. Post-potting care: Maintain an ambient temperature of 25-28°C, water using the immersion method, and avoid direct watering.
Two: Temperature Control to Prevent Frost Damage and Shriveling
Characteristics of Low-Temperature Injury
When the ambient temperature is <5°C for 48 consecutive hours, the cactus will initiate a dormancy mechanism. If the temperature drops below 0°C, ice crystals formed by the freezing of cell sap will pierce the cell walls, leading to transparent wrinkles at the base, usually accompanied by local browning.
Gradient Warming Technique
1. Immediately move to a 10-15°C environment to adapt for 3 days. 2. On the 4th day, raise the temperature to 18-22°C for constant care. 3. Use a double-layer insulation method: Inner layer with transparent plastic bag (ventilate for 2 hours daily), outer layer wrapped in felt. 4. Apply carbendazim suspension liquid to the frostbitten area to prevent mold.
Three: Scientific Watering to Avoid Dehydration and Shriveling
Watering Schedule Reference Standards
Use the 'Three Observation Method' to determine the watering time: • Surface substrate dry depth >3cm • Slight wrinkling appears on the ridges of the cactus • Pot weight is reduced by 1/3
Seasonal Watering Plan
Spring and Autumn (18-25°C): Water 50ml along the pot edge every 15 days. Summer (>30°C): Mist early morning every week to increase humidity. Winter (<15°C): completely stop watering to overwinter.
Four: Light Management to Prevent Sun Scald and Water Loss
Light Intensity分级 Management
• Seedling stage (<5cm): Exposure to diffused light (<15000lux) • Adult stage: Can tolerate direct light (30000-50000lux) • Summer noon: Use a shading net to filter 50% of the light.
Sun Scald Repair Process
1. Immediately move to a shady place (illuminance <5000lux). 2. Apply aloe vera gel to the burned area for moisturizing. 3. Maintain air humidity between 60-70% for 2 weeks. 4. Gradually increase light intensity after new spines emerge.
By systematically implementing the above maintenance strategies, more than 80% of the withered cacti can recover in 2-3 months. The key is to grasp the principle of 'early detection, accurate judgment, and quick treatment' while establishing a daily maintenance log to record critical data such as temperature, humidity, and watering frequency, achieving scientific and refined management.