Cactus for Hywel...

Hi, I would carefully remove the stem that is hanging down, I presume that is the dead part, I say carefully, because those spines can hurt, :-) Derek.

I would remove the dead bit. Slice it off, or cut it with a secateurs.
It will help the cut bit to dry if you dusted it with sulphur powder.
It may possibly grow a new stem from the cut part.

It looks like Cleistocactus strausii. It seems to need repotting.
Does it flower ?

Derek you are so right and I know that from experience, lol..

Its never flowered Hywel and yes I have about four that are in desperate need of re-potting, I hate that job, no matter how much paper I wrap around them they always seem to get me, I've got him out in the rain to give him a wash.
Thanks for the tips both of you and Hywel cheers for the name, I remembered you telling me to dust one a couple of years back but couldn't for the life of me think what the powder was that I'd used, didn't want to make the old boy worse, he's been with me a very long time, lol.....

If I lived nearer I'd do it for you. I never have any trouble repotting cacti.

Tip it out,
then lift it by its root-ball, and drop it in the new pot.

Put a stick to hold it upright while you fill the pot with compost :)

No problem ! :)

It might even flower for you next year. They flower easily.

Thanks Hywel, I'll think of you when I'm sorting my fingers out. LOL.

lol :D
Do it like that, and your fingers will be fine ... :)

Did you do it and are your fingers OK?

She is probably still nursing them and can't write yet , Stera !

LOL!