Question
Dear Greg,

The question I have is in regards to the stem of my cactus, I just repotted it and moved a bit of the soil away and noticed the colour at the base is brownish on the larger stems, whereas the smallest "bulb" has extra dark green spots. Is this some form of rot?

Another question I have concerns the roots. The previous pot was quite small and there were quite large roots appearing through the holes at the bottom of the pot. But there are also roots close to the surface and I read somewhere that this might be because I watered incorrectly (you can see a root at the surface on the picture).

Also, do you know what type of cactus I have? I haven't a clue, I just liked it. I did water it though, after I repotted it. I read later that's a big no no, so I'm hoping the roots won't rot!

Thanks for your time.

Leo

[URL=http://img144.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img34832av.jpg][IMG]http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/5500/img34832av.th.jpg[/IMG][/URL]

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/5500/img34832av.jpg

or

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/5500/img34832av.jpg

(new to the whole imageshack thing... hope it works)


Answer
Dear Leo,

The color of the stem below the soil level is normal. That is the equivelent of bark on a tree and protects the plant below the soil from excess water. Also, most cacti have surface roots that are just below the surface to collect any rain that happens to fall.

I believe your cactis is a Pilosocereus of some variety. Look through this website for some pictures that may match: http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Pilosocereus.html

Without seeing the flower, it is tough to tell exactly. And only water when the soil is dry. Overwatering can cause rot. Hope this helps!

Sincerely,

Greg