Should cacti be watered?
For many girls, whether to water a cactus and the detailed care points for cactus maintenance are important topics in green plant and flower cultivation. Let's take a look together.
A cactus is a round, spiky, succulent plant. Some cacti are covered with not only small spines but also short hairs. Cacti can adapt to dry growing environments because their thick and juicy bodies can store a large amount of water and nutrients during the rainy season. When keeping a cactus at home, special attention must be paid to watering. Do not water randomly to ensure it can be well cared for and last for many years. How to care for and water a cactus?
1. A newly planted cactus should not be watered
When potting a cactus, be careful not to use soil that easily compacts and retains water. This type of soil is hard and becomes like mud when watered and turns into a stone slab when dry, which is very detrimental to the growth of the cactus roots. Therefore, some small stones or old tiles must be placed at the bottom of the pot for drainage, and the potting soil should be mixed with vermiculite, perlite, or fine coal slag and river sand.
After potting a cactus, do not water it immediately. Initially, spray water daily, and within a半个月 (half-month) period, a small amount of water is sufficient. Only after a month has passed should the watering amount be gradually increased.
2. Cacti should not be over-fertilized or over-watered during the growing period
During the growing period, water according to the condition of the potting soil. Water when the soil is slightly dry and avoid letting the pot accumulate water. Additionally, fertilize during the growing period with a thin, fermented, and decomposed cake fertilizer or a small amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer. Over-fertilization or over-watering can cause the cactus to deform, grow too tall, or not bloom easily.
Should cacti be watered?
Regular cactus care techniques
Every one or two years, during spring and autumn, we can change the soil for the cactus. When repotting, cut off the withered and old roots, remove some of the old soil, then let it dry for two days before repotting with new, loose, and well-draining soil.
To make the cactus bloom, it is best to choose varieties that bloom frequently, such as some species of 'Fuchsia,' 'Jade Old Man,' 'Color Grass,' and 'Hair Column.' Also, except for summer, it is essential to maintain a growth environment with sufficient light, provide a small amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer, expose it to plenty of sunshine, and fertilize appropriately, which is more conducive to successful blooming and the appearance of reblooms.
In summer, when caring for a cactus, make sure it is not exposed to prolonged rain, which is also true for other seasons. Long-term exposure to rain can cause the cactus stems and roots to rot. In summer, provide some shade and scattered light, and always ensure a well-ventilated growing environment.