Sunburn or worse?

[rca]

Hey All,

I think my echinocactus has got sunburn, kicking myself for missing it. Could anyone confirm this is sunburn and not something worse please?

Apologies its quite hard to photograph through its exceptional defenses.

All help greatly appreciated,
Rachel

[Stuart]

Don't think it's scorch, probably cold damage during the winter which is quite common with the white spined E.Grusonii.
Stuart

[rodsmith]

I agree with Stuart. I had the same thing happen several years ago, which is why I no longer grow this species. I think it is a combination of cold and damp. Where do you keep your plant? If in a greenhouse, you need to ensure that the temperature is kept above about 7 or 8 degrees C. Mine used to drop to as low as 3 degrees and this, combined with damp winter weather, is what caused the marking. If there is no recurrence the marks will move to the bottom of your plant as it grows but I would consider an alternative location in the winter, such as indoors.

[rca]

Thank you so much - that makes a lot of sense. It has been inside, but on the edge of a bay window so in hindsight probably much too cold.

Really appreaciate your input,
Rachel

[el48tel]

Mine was happy in the cool of the conservatory even during the worst of the Beast from the East. This winter in the greenhouse it objected to the cool AND damp. No longer a potential show plant.