All the information, content and live chat provided on the site is intended to be for informational purposes only, and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. Remove the cactus from its pot then begin inspecting the roots. Thanks. Fix root rot in Cactus. What kind of cactus is this? And here’s why root rots are common in cacti plants: Cacti have a wide, shallow root system to maximize water collection in their natural habitat. You may be able to save the plant if you catch the disease early. Discoloration, shakiness, and mushy roots are often signs of cactus root rot. Corking happens naturally when a cactus matures. This may sound abnormal because most of us tend to think that cacti plants are sun-loving, desert plants. It occurs from the base of the plant where it touches the soil and can move up slowly or can stay in one spot. Check the plant for any signs of the roots rotting. Some of them require minimal light and partial shade to do well. Other symptoms may include your cactus turning brown or black. Cactus turning black Huge pimple turned black Download Here Free HealthCareMagic App to Ask a Doctor. Another common cause of a cactus turning black can be attributed root rot which can be caused by overwatering, poor draining soil or a combination of both. If the soil is not dry, move the pot to an area where the cactus can get more sun. Rot is caused by the skin of the cactus getting punctured some how, some ways are: An insect or animal biting the plant Debris in a monsoon storm hitting the plant Someone purposely poking the plant Another plant growing into the plant Remove the cactus from its pot. It does not seem to be really soft and mushy. Cut away any brown or black parts of the cactus to prevent rot from spreading. and Saguaro in the wild as well as cacti in landscaping, gardens & kept as houseplants ? Rot is a dark brownish-black spot that will start to ooze. First Step is to Identify that your cactus has rot. However, not all cacti species thrive in the hot sun. Cacti are relatively problem-free plants, often only suffering from a few sap-feeding insects. The most common reason for this is age and is called corking. I have posted a few pictures of the cactus along with a couple smaller ones that were treated the same and are doing well. Rinse the roots to remove the fungus and trim rotten areas. The disease, which causes the plants to wilt and eventually die, is identified by a wilted appearance and soggy, black or reddish brown roots. What genera/species of mold commonly grow on or injure cactus plants (family Cactaceae) such as the Mexican Nopal or prickly pear cactus (photo at left, - Opuntia Mill. ) Turning brown means that it has developed a disease called root rot, which is caused by poor drainage or excessive watering. Attached Files: GEDC0747.jpg File size: 104.7 KB Black Spots on Cactus. 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