How to cultivate a cactus
Summary: This article discusses the cultivation of cacti and related knowledge of caring for cacti, including the following details:
One, methods for cultivating cacti
1. Soil
A mixture of garden soil, decayed leaf soil, and coarse sand (each in equal parts of 3), plus 1 part each of wood ash and decomposed bone meal, should be prepared for cultivation. Then, in early spring, plant in a pot with a 3cm layer of small stones at the bottom. The planting depth should be such that the base of the cactus is level with the soil surface.
2. Light
Cacti prefer to grow in environments with plenty of sunlight, but excessive exposure to direct sunlight can slow down their growth. If you want cacti to grow faster, keep them in a shady environment during the hot summer.
3. Watering
Most cacti are native to the hot and arid desert areas of North and South America, so they have strong drought resistance. Overwatering can cause root rot, and some large cacti can even survive without watering for 1-2 years.
4. Temperature
The optimal growth temperature for cacti is between 20-35°C. Different types of cacti prefer a larger day-night temperature difference, generally within 35°C during the day and around 15°C at night, which is more conducive to the production and accumulation of organic matter, thereby promoting more vigorous plant growth.
5. Fertilization
Cacti enjoy and tolerate fertilizer. Generally, top dressing can start 30 days after potting in spring. During the growing season, apply a dilute solution of decomposed fertilizer every 20 days, mixed with an equal amount of a 1000-fold solution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate. Fertilization should be stopped in winter.
6. Repotting
When repotting cacti, cut off some of the old roots and let them dry for 4-5 days before planting. The planting depth should not be too deep, usually level with the neck of the cactus. To prevent root rot, newly planted cacti should not be watered, just spray 2-3 times a day.
7. Diseases and Pests
Cacti are prone to diseases and pests in high temperatures and poor ventilation. Diseases can be treated with carbendazim or thiophanate-methyl, while pests can be controlled with dimethoate. Any spray application should be done outdoors.
How to cultivate a cactus
Two, precautions for cultivating cacti
1. During the cultivation of cacti, it is necessary to control the amount of watering, light exposure, and fertilization. Improper handling can lead to the death of the cactus.
2. In spring and summer, cacti resume growth, and a balanced fertilizer can be applied every 15 days. It is necessary to provide appropriate shading and avoid direct exposure to intense sunlight.
3. In winter, move the potted cacti indoors. A room temperature of 5°C or higher is sufficient for them to survive. During cultivation, the soil should be slightly dry to prevent root rot.
4. Cacti should not be watered excessively, as it can cause root rot. In spring and summer, water once every 1-2 months, and in autumn and winter, water once every 2-3 months.
5. Cacti love sunlight and are drought-resistant. When watering, make sure to water thoroughly.
6. Repotting is usually done in spring. New cacti should not be watered immediately after repotting, but after 7 days.
This article shares specific content on how to cultivate cacti and related care knowledge for reference and operation.