Question
I have a Prickly Pear Cactus that was "rescued" about five years ago from a South Dakota farm after the plant was damaged by farm equipment. The cactus has never flowered and the only new growth it has seen over the years is three or four small leaves. A few months ago, in order to keep the cactus out of reach of my toddler son, I moved it out of the window and into a hanging basket in a corner opposite the same window. All of a sudden, over the last month, the cactus has put out at least 22 new stems. Is this due to lack of light? Should I remove this new growth and move the plant outside (now that the weather is warm enough) or do I leave the new growth and hope for the best? Also, the tip of one of these new stems has turned black and shriveled as if it were burned. Is this something to be concerned about?

Answer
Rachel,

Actually, the new stems could be flowers as they look very similar when small. What you may want to do is remove 1/2 the branches if you want to keep it small and it should be just fine. As far as the sudden growth goes, it was probably the increased light and warmth that set it off. Planting it outside is also an option and right now is a great time. Good luck!

Sincerely,

Greg