Pencil Cactus Pruning Guide

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I live in Arizona where this Pencil Cactus grows outdoors year-round. They make wonderful indoor plants if you have medium to high light and I also have a smaller one growing indoors.

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1. Before you start the pruning process, be sure to clean & sharpen your pruners. This will ensure that you make clean cuts.

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2. Warning: A Pencil Cactus, like other Euphorbias, will emit a sap when cut into. This milky substance is considered to be toxic. I’ve gotten it on my skin & it has never irritated me but it may be different for you.

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3. I always let my Pencil Cactus cuttings heal off (dry over at the ends, like we do with a wound) for quite a period of time before planting.

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4. I planted mine after a week of healing over. It was in early spring when I did so. You can put the cutting in well aerated soil and roots will begin to appear.

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Conclusion: Pencil Cactus grow fast. You can prune them lightly or heavier as I did. Just mind the sticky sap and give your pruners a good cleaning before and after pruning. They’re easy to grow and are a fun plant to have in your collection!

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More On Pencil Cactus Care

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Want more tips on houseplant care & gardening?

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