Just wondering guys if anyone (other than kada) has used the method of cutting the taproots off plants that have very prevalent taproots to reduce rot?
If so how did everyone go? How much did you cut off? And are you watering the plant more frequently now that the plant has less of a taproot and more capillary roots?
I just bought a nice capiopoa hypogaea today and just wondering if I will cut the taproot off next spring when I repot it.

I cut taproot of Astrophytum asterias when seedlings are 2 years old.
The season of the cutting is mid of August and rooting is started in mid of September.
Asterias like a very hot condition. If you fed a prenty of water in hot summer, asterias seedlings grow very well but it will be increased the chance of rotting from the taproot.
I use same method for other Astrophytums but not for Ariocarpus and Copiapoa.

Hanazono
2 years old miracle kabuto, before cutting tap-roots

After cutting off tap roots

3 years old seedling, 1 year later after cutting taproot, more capillary roots

Is there any reason you don't do this for ariocarpus or copiapoa? You can definitely see the difference in root system once the taproot has been cut off. All look very plump and healthy.

mitchell101

The re-growing roots of Ariocarpus is quite slow. Seedlings stop growing or die.
I have never try to propagate Copiapoa from seed. I just have not experienced to cut taproot of Copiapoa.

I think Obregonia will work. I will try in future.

Hanazono

Great info Hanzono. I have been doing a similar thing with my asters with good results in regard to growth, health and mortality rate. However I have found it unnecessary for Myriostigma, they tend to be more tolerant. What are your thoughts?

HN

Hellonasty

Yes all Astrophytum tolerate enogh to grow with tap root including genuine asterias, I think.
My collection is asterias cultivar and I do not have genuine asterias at all.
I cut tap root of 2 years old asterias cultivars.

Hanazono

With my copiapoa I think I'll wait til early next spring and repot the plant.
I'll check out the roots and probably give them a bit of a trim. Its a mature plant so I don't think I'll be cutting the lot of roots off.
I've been leaving the copiapoa outside for morning and evening sun but take it undercover during the middle of the day. It is brown so will tolerate and appreciate sun but I don't want to bake or burn it.