Hi SW Friends

Well, I got the garden seeded yesterday. Feels good to have that crossed off the list. I thought I'd only leave the luffa, but the cucs and cantaloupes are finally beginning to set fruit, so I untangled the mess of vines reminiscent of Christmas lights. Hopefully, they will like the trellis; something I would have done earlier if not for the unproductive pole beans. I don't think pole beans will work for me as this is the second time trying and haven't gotten much fruit. I think the temps soar too fast for them. Sure looked beautiful, though.

I planted the handful of Fava beans to overwinter. Being in the main bed this time really ought to help them flourish. I am very excited to follow their progress. Also trying my had at brussel sprouts again. Last time they leafed out instead of maintaining their little cabbage heads. Not sure if it was heat related or lack of care, but my fingers are crossed. Turned out to an interesting plant, so if it happens again, I may just use it as a container plant.

Anyways, just popping in to say howdy! Enjoy the cooler weather!

Hello,

I have had a cactus for seven-some years which has died of rot. I did not act sooner because of complications. It has finally been repotted and is now outside. I live in Chicago, IL, so it will be getting chillier outside soon. I do not believe there is any visible green/sign of life. It has been "decomposing" very slowly, which gives me some hope.

I have done some research. I now know that:

- Cutting the moldy roots away and repotting Lemonade (my cactus) would have saved her a while ago.
- Cacti are good at maintaining some life, even if we are not always able to tell.
- Antifungals are a possibility when it comes to killing rot. I do not know which antifungals. Do you have any suggestions?
- A team has been able to temporarily revive the brains of pigs using cell-reviving chemicals. I believe such is possible with plants, though I cannot find out what these chemicals are.

My theory is that there may still be some life in poor Lemonade buried underneath her skin, just hanging on. If so, what should I do to save this fragment of life? Or should I just let it be (and perhaps apply some antifungals)? How long should I wait after doing either one of these things?

Is there anything at all I can do to save my cactus? I am aware that it is very unlikely that anything will work, but any-and-all suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you very much,
Amelie Liebhaber

Even though I live in the desert, Amelie, , I am not an expert on Cactus, but I know too much water will rot them when growing in a pot and no way would I keep it outside in the winter in Chicago. Good luck and welcome!