Dying Cactus [Solved]

Can any help please? It's in my Mother's conservatory.

Thank You

 

That's an Opuntia isn't it? When was it last watered?

 

Crikey! Mine has been without a drink since November in an unheated greenhouse and it still looks fine.
I'm wondering if it is suffering a slow death as a result of root rot through overwatering? This could have taken place last summer as the plant would have enough reserves to last a goodly while.

 

Well I asked my mother and she advised it does rot at the bottom when she waters it...

 

Last watered two weeks ago

 

I think its probably rotting at the roots then.
Best to cut off a couple of pads and try to reroot them, although they are very shrivelled and might not root well.

 

So deffo not repairable? How did this happen, just over watering?

 

Probably overwatering or watering during low temperatures.
These can last all winter in cool condition with no water at all.
In the greenhouse I never water cacti from sept to march.

 

Spoke to my mother and advised her take some cuttings and try that. Thanks for you help everyone. You can't win 'em all.

 

Probably shouldn't mention this as I'm not the safest person around, but, that electrical socket looks decidedly dodgy.

 

Jeepers! That's just gagging for some condensation to roll of the windows!

 

I'm not sure I like the exposed metal box, its probably earthed, (hopefully), but the way its just hanging there, cable exposed as well.
It must be temporary.

 

That legendary phrase!

 

haha, I don't think it's plugged in. Never seen it used. Shall I find out?