Saguaro cactus are very slow growing. They only grow about 1/2" in the first year and to 1' in about 15 years. In 40 to 50 years, saguaros reach about 10' tall (and first begin to flower and produce fruit), and in 75 to 100 years they may sprout arm buds. A mature saguaro can soak up to 200 pounds of water during a rain storm. Their root systems are shallow, not really balancing the above ground weight. It amazes me that they last as long as they do.
On January 21, 2010 a strong storm hit our little desert town. The ground was saturated and softened from the torrential rains, the cactus were full of water and top heavy. Then the high winds hit. Sadly dozens of our saguaros were toppled. Here are a few of the lost ones.
When this multi-armed cactus fell the fence cut it in pieces......
Over 150 years old, this was a local landmark. Every Spring it was topped with blooms like a fancy hat.
But not all that fell were lost. This saguaro was lifted and replanted.
If you would like to know more about these giants you can check these sites;Saguaro National Park http://www.nps.gov/sagu/index.htm
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