Succulent plants are increasingly favored by gardening enthusiasts for their unique appearance and easy cultivation. Among them, the succulent star cactus has become a star plant in many succulent gardens due to its unique leaf shape, color, and ease of propagation. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the cultivation techniques of the succulent star cactus, helping you create a healthy and beautiful succulent garden.
I. Getting to Know the Succulent Star Cactus
The succulent star cactus, also known as iron cross or iron cross grass, is a Crassulaceae plant and a perennial evergreen. Its main features are its iron cross-shaped or star-shaped leaves, which are dark green or purplish-red. The plant is small and highly ornamental.
II. Choosing the Right Pot
When cultivating the succulent star cactus, choosing the right pot is very important. Generally, you can choose ceramic or cement pots that are breathable and have good drainage, or plastic pots. The size of the pot should be chosen according to the size of the succulent star cactus, with a pot of 10-15 cm in diameter being generally suitable.
III. Preparing the Soil for Succulent Star Cactus
The succulent star cactus prefers sandy soil. Therefore, when preparing the planting soil, you can mix 3 parts of vermiculite or perlite, 2 parts of garden soil, and 1 part of fine sand or perlite sand. Alternatively, you can use pre-mixed succulent-specific soil available on the market.
IV. Soaking the Seeds
The seeds of the succulent star cactus are very small and need to be soaked in warm water for 3-4 hours before sowing to allow them to fully absorb water. Before sowing, the soil for the succulent star cactus needs to be loosened and evenly mixed.
V. Sowing
Evenly spread the soaked seeds on the surface of the soil for the succulent star cactus and gently press them down. Do not cover with too much soil. Then, spray some water on the surface with a sprayer to keep it moist.
VI. Pay Attention to Watering Amount
The succulent star cactus is a plant that prefers a dry environment, so be careful not to overwater. Generally, the amount of water each time should be about 1/2 to 2/3 of the soil's capacity.
VII. Pay Attention to Light
The succulent star cactus is a plant that likes plenty of sunlight, so ensure it gets adequate light during cultivation. In the summer, be careful to avoid direct, strong sunlight and use a shading net for protection.
VIII. Controlling Temperature
The suitable growth temperature for the succulent star cactus is between 15°C and 28°C. In the summer, be mindful of avoiding high temperatures, and in the winter, pay attention to keeping it warm and protected from the cold.
IX. Regular Fertilization
The succulent star cactus has relatively low nutritional requirements and therefore does not need frequent fertilization. Generally, fertilizing once a month is sufficient. You can choose to use a fertilizer specifically for succulents.
X. Pay Attention to Pest and Disease Control
The succulent star cactus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can also be infested by pests such as aphids and whiteflies. When pests are found, you can use insecticides for control.
XI. Pay Attention to Repotting Time
When the soil in the pot of the succulent star cactus becomes too old or the roots are too dense, it needs to be repotted. Generally, repotting can be done in the spring or autumn each year, transferring it to a larger pot.
XII. Pay Attention to Propagation
The propagation methods for the succulent star cactus include seed propagation, cutting propagation, and leaf propagation. Among them, cutting is the most common method. You can choose to cut the stem tip and then insert it into moist soil for propagation.
XIII. Pay Attention to the Cultivation Environment
The succulent star cactus is a plant that likes a well-ventilated and dry environment, so during cultivation, choose a well-ventilated and damp-free environment.
XIV. Pay Attention to the Dormant Period
The succulent star cactus enters a dormant period in the winter. During this time, reduce the frequency of watering and fertilizing, and place it in a relatively dry and ventilated location to facilitate healthy growth.
XV.
The succulent star cactus is a plant with high ornamental value. Its cultivation techniques mainly include choosing the right pot, preparing suitable planting soil, controlling watering and light, and paying attention to fertilization and pest and disease control. As long as you master these techniques, you can easily create a healthy and beautiful succulent garden.