The cultivation method of Golden Barrel Cactus
Here is an introduction to the planting details of the Golden Barrel Cactus, a succulent plant, which will surely help you. Let's learn about it together!
The Golden Barrel Cactus has a large, emerald green body covered with strong spines, ivory-colored, fluffy, and deeply loved by enthusiasts. To cultivate the Golden Barrel Cactus well, one must first understand its growth patterns and then adopt scientific management to grow a satisfying Golden Barrel Cactus.
1. Temperature
Temperature plays an important role in the growth cycle of the Golden Barrel Cactus. In winter, the cactus enters a dormant state. By April, it wakes up and starts growing. In May and June, the temperature reaches the optimal growth range of 25-30°C, and the cactus enters its peak growth period. In July and August, when the temperature exceeds 35°C, the cactus enters summer dormancy. In September, when the temperature drops to 30°C, the cactus wakes up again and starts growing. Good management in autumn can lead to growth rates that may exceed those in spring. By mid to late November, as the temperature drops, the cactus enters a dormant period again, marking the end of its annual growth cycle.
2. Light
When cultivating the Golden Barrel Cactus, it is important to meet its need for sunlight. Apart from keeping it indoors during the winter, it should be placed in a sunny spot throughout the day in spring, summer, and autumn. Placing the cactus indoors for long periods can affect its color and spine growth, causing the body to become deformed and lose its ornamental value. During the winter, the cactus should be placed near a window with sunlight, and rotated occasionally to ensure even light exposure. In the intense summer sun, it is necessary to provide some shade. My method is to cover the upper part of the cactus with a colored plastic bag to protect the fluffy top from rain, then cover the whole pot with a large plastic bag and place it where it gets the most sunlight. During the hot summer, remove the large plastic bag to avoid moisture buildup and potential rotting of the cactus. After removing the bag, placing the cactus in a well-ventilated area promotes healthy growth.
3. Watering
Although the Golden Barrel Cactus is drought-resistant, it still needs water. Some cacti may not grow or even shrink if they are not watered regularly. During the growing seasons of spring and autumn, the cactus should be given ample water, while water should be restricted during the dormant periods of winter and summer. Water every 4-5 days or once a week during the early growth stage, preferably from the edge of the pot, in the morning or late afternoon. It is best to let tap water sit for 2 days before using. From late April to June, the cactus's water demand increases, so water twice a day, making sure to water thoroughly. During the plum rain season in June, be careful not to let the soil become too wet, which can cause root rot. During July and August, when the cactus enters summer dormancy, water should be restricted. From late September to October, the cactus enters the growing season again, and should be watered every 3-4 days. In November, as growth slows, water every 10 days. In December, when the cactus enters dormancy, it can be watered less frequently to enhance its cold resistance.
4. Fertilizing
In spring, fertilize frequently with a dilute solution, once a week. From May to June, fertilize every 4-5 days with a slightly higher concentration. Do not fertilize during the hot summer. From September to October, fertilize once a week, and do not fertilize from November to the following spring. Use fertilizers made from decomposed animal remains or manure diluted with water, applying in the morning or late afternoon, and water the day after fertilizing.
5. Potting Soil
It should be loose, moderately fertile, neutral or slightly acidic, and rich in organic matter. Pre-packaged soil is available in the market, or you can make your own: ① 3 parts loam, 2 parts decomposed leaf or peat soil, 1 part sieved bone meal, 4 parts coarse sand; ② 3 parts coarse sand, 3 parts garden soil, 2 parts decomposed leaf soil, 1 part lime, 1 part broken tiles or bricks, with a bit of superphosphate, charcoal granules, or bone meal added.
6. Pottery
A breathable clay pot is best, followed by ceramic or porcelain pots. The size of the pot should match the size of the cactus, with a 3-4 cm gap between the cactus and the pot wall. The gap can be larger for larger cacti.
7. Planting
The best time to plant is after the end of winter dormancy, before it starts growing. The second best time is during the summer dormancy period. The procedure is as follows: Cover the bottom hole with tiles or broken pot pieces, fill 1/4 to 1/3 with碎片 of tiles, bricks, or dead branches, then add 1/4 to 1/3 potting soil. Trim some of the roots, place the cactus in the center of the pot, cover the root neck with soil, gently shake the pot to ensure good contact between the soil and roots, press the soil around the roots, and then add a layer of coarse gravel to resist erosion from watering. Do not water immediately, and keep it indoors until it starts growing before watering.
8. Repotting
The time for repotting is the same as for planting, once a year or every other year. Prepare a larger pot and new potting soil, remove the cactus from the old pot, remove some of the old soil, and trim dead and rotting roots, then let it dry before repotting. The procedure is the same as for planting. If the cactus is too large to repot easily, remove some of the old soil and add new potting soil. Press down and add a layer of coarse gravel, without watering immediately.
9. Cold Protection
The Golden Barrel Cactus is not cold-resistant. When the temperature drops to around 5°C, move the cactus to a sunny spot indoors, keep the soil dry, and protect it from cold winds.
The above tips on the cultivation of the Golden Barrel Cactus are shared in the hope that they will be of some help to you after reading this article!