Q.Brown bases on my cacti?
Can someone please tell me why my cacti are turning brown near the bases? I live in Thailand and I don’t see this problem on any of the cacti being sold at the markets…obviously I am doing something wrong. Thanking you in advance.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
This is a Euphorbia, and is going through a process known as "corking". It is normal, to an extent. In this case, this would be considered excessive corking, and will signify significant stress.
I would give them shade from the afternoon sun, and make sure that the soil is NOT clay and well draining cactus mix with plenty of sand.
Overwatering and too much sun/heat will cause excessive corking, so I would ensure that neither of those is happening.
This article will explain more about the natural defense systems of cacti: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/scgen/saving-sunburned-cactus-plants.htm
