Tucson Cactus Removal

Quite often, it’s simply because the plant has become overgrown. A saguaro cactus will send roots in all directions in search of water. However, these roots stay relatively close to the surface. As a result, the cactus doesn’t have exceptional root support that holds it in place. When it becomes overgrown, its roots can no longer support it, and it can fall over without warning.

Absolutely. One of the most prevalent diseases of the saguaro cactus is bacterial necrosis. In fact, it’s one of the most common reasons why homeowners arrange for Tucson cactus removal at Joe’s Yard, Tree + Irrigation. Bacterial necrosis most often affects the larger cacti, such as saguaro. It’s also been found in prickly pear, cholla, barrel, and organ pipe cacti. This infection may start on the trunk or branches. It will initially cause a softening and darkening of the plant tissue. Over time, the affected area will enlarge, turn purplish-black, and then split open.

Other diseases that may result in the need for Tucson cactus removal include the following:

• Phyllosticta pad spot: This is a fungal infection that causes the appearance of black spots.
• Anthracnose: This is a fungal infection that often affects agaves, particularly those that have been overwatered.
• Pythium rot: This is an internal soft rot that affects barrel cacti, particularly the golden barrel. It’s caused by a soil-borne pathogen that favors moist conditions.
• Opuntia Sammons’ virus: This is a viral infection that most often affects the Engelmann prickly pear cactus. It’s characterized by light yellow rings on the pads. Fortunately, most infections are mild and do not necessarily require the destruction of the cactus.

The Southwestern desert is home to an astonishing array of insect life, including insects that attack native plants such as cacti. One of the reasons why it’s a great idea to call our team to install your landscaping is that we will closely inspect all plants for signs of pest infestations before planting them in your yard. This prevents the infestation from spreading to other plants in your landscape.

Some of the most common pests to watch out for on your cacti include the following:

• Agave snout weevil: The adult agave snout weevil will readily attack any species of agave, although it prefers the larger Agave americana. The adult female enters the plant in order to lay her eggs. The injury to the plant tissue results in decay and tissue rot. Eventually, the infected plants will collapse and die. Watch out for a bug that looks brownish-black with a dull body and is about half an inch in length.
• Cactus longhorn beetle: This insect attacks prickly pear, cholla, and other species of cacti. It eats around the margins of the pads or terminal buds, inflicting damage. It will also burrow into the cactus to lay eggs, resulting in the eventual collapse and death of the plant. The adult beetle is black, shiny, with white markings on the antennae.
• Cochineal scale: This pest might look like a fungal infection at first blush, as the insect covers itself with a waxy, white coat that looks like cottony tufts. Initially, an infestation of cochineal scale is more of a nuisance than a serious problem. However, if left untreated, the insects can eventually weaken and kill the plant.

These are just a few of the pests that commonly attack cacti in Arizona. Our team can often treat insect infestations and salvage the plant. However, in severe cases, Tucson cactus removal may be necessary.

Arizona state law and many municipal regulations protect the desert’s iconic plant life, including saguaro cacti. And yes, in certain circumstances, it’s illegal to remove a saguaro cactus (as well as other species of cacti). This is another reason why you’ll need to call our professionals to handle a Tucson cactus removal job. We’ll ensure that the removal is carried out to the letter of the law.

Homeowners do have the right to remove protected cacti from their privately owned land, but only if the plant is not being offered for sale or otherwise taken off the land for repurposing. In addition, a permit must be obtained from the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Other native plants that require a permit for removal include the following:

• Organ pipe
• Barrel
• Cholla
• Barrel
• Agave
• Prickly pear
• Pincushion