How to prune argentine giant cactus

Spring for pup removal; damaged tissue can be addressed any time. For large stems, use a sharp, sterilised pruning saw. Cut cleanly in one pass to avoid tearing. Dust the cut surface with fungicidal powder and leave to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated spot for several days before watering.

Rarely — only to remove damage or take propagation pups. Argentine Giant Cactus is a large columnar species that needs no routine pruning indoors or out. Remove only clearly dead, frost-damaged, or rotting sections using a sterilised saw or large knife. Pups at the base can be detached for propagation in spring. Never trim the living column for shape.

For large stems, use a sharp, sterilised pruning saw. Cut cleanly in one pass to avoid tearing. Dust the cut surface with fungicidal powder and leave to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated spot for several days before watering.