Prickly Pear Help

Question

My prickly pear looks like it might be rotting. I noticed discoloured sections on the leaves, they look like they have see through and feel squishy. This happened over night so I’m not quite sure what’s going on. Any help will be greatly appreciated as I grew these from seed

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Answer 1

Removing the entire pad will cause the least amount of damage. The joints will callus very quickly.

Answer 2

This does appear to be an overwatering problem, which will lead to rot. Cacti are very drought tolerant, and not tolerant of wet soils.

Sudden drops in temperature can cause these symptoms to worsen.

Treating with a fungicide will be necessary, here. I would cut any squishy pads off, as well. This article will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm

This article will give you information on their care requirements:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/prickly-pear/growing-prickly-pear.htm

Answer 3

Thanks for your help. When it comes to cutting off the affected pads, could I just cut off the affected section as it only has one pad. Or do I need to cut off the entire pad.

Thanks again for your help