Question
QUESTION: Dear Expert,

I have a potted Austrocylindropuntia Subulata. "He" was once small and without spines/needles. Two years ago, I transferred him to a larger pot where he has grown to giant proportions. But he did not grow spines. For the past year, he has been under the care of a friend who has a garden while I have been away. He has just been returned to me and I see that he has grown many sharp spines. I would prefer him to be without spines- both aesthetically and for human care purposes. I've tried researching whether or not it is safe or unhealthy to remove the spines of this cactus species and what methods there are for doing so. I've seen various comments ranging from "Don't remove the spines" to "It's fine to remove them, and the best way is by burning them off with a lighter (as opposed to cutting them off)."

I'd really appreciate your insight.

Thanks a lot,

Nili


ANSWER: Hello Nili,
It is important for you to know that it is best to leave the plants at its natural way of life. But if you consider to remove them, remove them with the consideration of leaving a small part of the spine left on the cactus. Depending on the species, the left over  part of the spine should fall off naturally. Pulling the spines might not effect the plant, and the spots would heal. But I strongly suggest leaving the spines or as I instructed above.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you, Joan! A few follow-up questions:

1. Do you know why the cactus grew spines after several years of living without them?

2. If I do remove them, I wasn't sure which approach you suggested- pulling the spines out or leaving part of the spine on.

3. If leaving part of the spine on, which is the best method for doing so- cutting or burning off with a lighter?

Thanks again,

Nili

Answer
Hello Nili,
Your cactus has probably matured over the years. I was suggesting leaving part of the spine on, that way it won't harm the cactus and reduce the spine growth. Do not burn (where did you here that crazy idea?). Cut it off smoothly with a sharp scissors.