Knowing when a cactus is in distress isn’t always obvious. Many diseases and pests suddenly appear, making it difficult to understand the exact sources of their problems. But, if you can identify signs of ailing health early on, you may be able to save your beloved cacti.
For starters, check your cactus’ coloring. Healthy plants have a vibrant hue and glossy sheen. Wilting or dull-looking foliage signals distress; discoloration or patches of green are indications that something’s amiss.
Look for spotting or lesions on the surface of your plant as well. These manifestations are typically caused by bacterial and viral infections and often signal an untimely end to your cactus’ life.
Unusual growth patterns should also raise alarm bells; sudden wilting or drooping limbs or stems indicate extreme stress from too little water, disease, or over-watering—the latter being one of the leading contributors to cacti perishing prematurely. Additionally, black ‘salt’ deposits are another telltale sign of overwatering as salt builds up in soil due to evaporation from an excess of water filling its pores
Finally, look out for small white insects gathered around the center of the plant—these are mealybugs and symbolize a serious problem for your succulent!
Now you know what to look for when assessing if your cactus is healthy or not—remember: acting quickly is essential! If you notice any signs that suggest something may be wrong—starting with discoloration—implement treatment right away and keep up extra vigilance moving forward!