I have had a Christmas cactus for number of years. Appears to be growing well. But all of the stems starting at the dirt have brown scaly appearances but does not feel scaly. Would appreciate if anybody can give information about what this is. Can it be treated or should I just toss it? It does have higher leaves that do not appear to be affected yet. What is foolproof way to root any cuttings that can be salvaged.

Are those brown stems soft when you squeeze them, or do they feel firm? I can't tell for sure from your photo but it's normal for Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) as they age, for the stems to become woody.