Cactus/Expert Profile
Expertise
I can answer questions regarding the care and propagation of cactus and succulents and would actually group these together as folks often mistake one for the other and often their care is quite different. I also have a cold hardy cactus and succulent garden that has been quite successful. The subject in regard to classification of type is enormous and I wouldn't be able to answer all questions by any means. It is really IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE A PHOTO if at all possible and LET ME KNOW WHERE YOU ARE FROM, especially in terms of climate.
Experience in the area
I have learned by reading books, by trial and error and by consulting with folks with much more knowledge. I have primarily grown C&S for the last 20 years.
Organizations
Cactus and Succulent Society of Massachusetts.
Education/Credentials
No formal training. See experience.
What do you like about this subject?
Everything. It is intriguing and frustrating. it has endless Genus, Families, sub families, etc. I am always learning something and always feel like a novice. I love to to see how the plants develop and how and why they die. They are generally easy to grow and thrive on neglect (so I have time to read about them!). I like many types of plants but C&S are the most fascinating.
What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?
See above. I would like to learn more about each Genus, get better at propagation, LEARN MORE NAMES!! I hope to become as accomplished in this area as I can without being a botanist. I want to travel and see them in their natural habitat. I want to share what I do know and inspire folks to give these amazing plants a try.
Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:
All cactus are cactus are succulents but not all succulents are cactus. I live in MA and have a cold hardy cactus garden that is fun and easy. Native cactus are found in every state but two.
Something controversial or provocative about this subject
It often takes months before you can tell that a cactus is dead. They retain their shell and look healthy then either collapse or if you touch them they'll feel very soft. Don't know if that qualifies under controversial or provocative.
Average Ratings
Recent Reviews from Users
K = Knowledgeability C = Clarity of Response P = Politeness| User | Date | K | C | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sheena | 01/03/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | thanks a lot for the suggestion,as ..... |
| Frank | 12/30/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Maureen was very helpful and I believe ..... |
| Brittany | 12/28/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | |
| Alicia | 12/20/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Hello Maureen: Thank you so much for ..... |
| Lynda | 12/13/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Recent Answers from Maureen
2012-01-18 cactus care:
Dear Dan, Congratulations on some great plants! As a rule, from April to September established cactus plants only need to be watered once a month at a slow drip for 2-3 hours, so should be on a separate
2012-01-02 Aloe Vera:
Dear Sheena, As winter is it's dormant period it may take longer to root - 2wks to 1 month or so - hard to say. You are doing the correct thing tho. You may not see much new groth till summer, however
2012-01-02 Aloe Vera:
Dear Sheena, Yeas they can, tho I find it easier through offshoots. Anyway, here's how: First, select a leaf to remove from the mother plant. The aloe leaf cutting should be at least 3 inches in
2011-12-27 Droopy cactus:
Dear Frank, Do you have a photo? Do you know what kind of plant it is? Is it just an arm that is drooping or the whole plant? Where are the brown spots? It' hard to know without a photo but drooping
2011-12-23 Floppy, leaning zebra plant (hawthornia fasciata (sp?):
Dear Brittany, I would seperate the healthy part of the plant as soon as possible as the rot is extending up. It should be obvious to you when you seperate the plant. It is mushy and discolored. You
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