Question

cactus  

cactus   My cactus suddenly started developing four babies this summer Photos attached.
As you can see they are placed on top of the plant and rather cramped. I know one should detach the babies to propagate but I have always seen them grow at the base of the mother, not on top!
So the question is, am I supposed to do anything?
I'd be happy to just let nature take its course, I suppose the babies will grow big enough to fall off...but that's my theory, is it the case?

Answer
Dear Anne, Don't do anything!!!!  I think that instead of producing babies, your cactus is going to do something even more wonderful - BLOOM!  The placement looks perfect for a blooming cactus.  Even if these are actually babies, you would do best to let them grow fully so they would be mature enough to survive.  Then you could dislodge them and let them dry out (harden off and callous over) so they would be able to grow roots when planted.  However, I think you are in for a beautiful display of blooms.  Be sure to keep the water up as your cactus in in "springtime mode" and provide plenty of light as I see you are already doing, and don't forget to take pictures.  Your blooms will likely be either pink or yellow.  Cactus blooms are often short-lived lasting only a day, so make sure you don't miss a day.  I am from Texas and I've seen a lot of cactus.  Your blooms should be very nice indeed.  I hope this information helps you, but write back if you have more questions, or if you want to show me the pictures!  Good luck, Melissa