Ocotillo Plant Growing Horizontal

Question

We have a very old ocotillo plant, approx. 15+ feet tall. It leans way over, assume toward the sun. It has become unsightly in our front yard because it bends over so far. It is staked and tied about 4 feet up on three sides, assume when the previous owner planted it. Do you have any suggestions for getting it straightened and growing upright? A Lantana bush has grown up and around it now.

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Answer 1

I suggest moving the lantana bush. It is shading the ocotillo's lower portion which doesn't help it. They need room to spread their canes and full sun. It may be getting too much water if you are watering those plants around it regularly. Ocotillo don't need supplemental water unless your area goes through a dry spell. It shouldn't need stakes. You might consider removing those and see if that helps. Here is more:

https://ag.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/growingocotillo2016.html
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/ocotillo/ocotillo-plant.htm