Monkey Tail Cactus Cultivation Method
As a hanging succulent plant from the Cactaceae family, the Monkey Tail Cactus has become a new favorite for home greenery, thanks to its fluffy, cylindrical stems and beautiful red flowers. This article will systematically explain the secrets to achieving a full pot of Monkey Tail Cactus, from substrate mixing to light management, and will also include a complete tutorial on stem cutting propagation.
One, Four Key Elements for a Full Pot of Monkey Tail Cactus
1. Golden Ratio for Substrate Preparation
Use a mixed substrate of volcanic rock: decomposed leaf soil: coarse sand in a ratio of 3:2:1, with particle size controlled at 3-5mm. Add bone meal at 5g/liter of soil during potting every two years to ensure that the roots can both drain and absorb nutrients.
2. Light and Temperature Control Cycle
Full-day care in spring and autumn (6-8 hours), shade 30%-50% during noon in summer. Maintain 12-15°C for overwintering in winter, and using a double-layer insulation tent can increase cold resistance by 40%.
3. Intelligent Watering Solution
Set a soil moisture meter to monitor, and slowly water around the pot when the value ≤25%. Use siphon drainage during the rainy season, with a 2cm thick layer of ceramsite at the bottom of the pot, which can reduce the probability of waterlogging by 70%.
4. Nutritional Supplement Strategy
In the growing season (March-October), apply phosphorus-potassium liquid fertilizer (N-P-K=5-15-10) diluted 1000 times monthly, combined with calcium-magnesium foliar fertilizer spray, which can increase the number of flowers by 2-3 times.
Two, Complete Process for Stem Cutting Propagation
Select healthy stem sections 15-20cm long, apply sulfur powder to the cut and let them hang in the shade to dry for 7 days. Use disinfected vermiculite as the propagation substrate, maintain a constant temperature of 25°C, and combine with intermittent spraying (humidity 80%), new aerial roots can be seen after 20 days.
After mastering scientific care methods, the annual growth of the Monkey Tail Cactus can reach 30-50cm. It is recommended to perform topping every 3 years, which can not only provide propagation material but also promote the germination of lateral buds to form a waterfall-like landscape.