Where to Water a Cactus
As a star member of desert plants, the cactus is loved by gardening enthusiasts for its unique shape and tenacious vitality. Although the watering operation seems simple, it actually contains many subtleties. Incorrect watering methods can lead to rotting of the ball body or even the death of the plant. Mastering scientific watering techniques is the key to allowing this desert spirit to bloom on the urban windowsill.
Essential Techniques for Watering Cacti
Accurate定位 of Irrigation Area
The surface of the cactus ball is covered with a waxy protective layer. Watering directly from the top will damage the epidermal structure, causing unsightly brown spots. The correct method is to hold a long-spouted pot and slowly pour water along the pot wall, allowing the water to evenly infiltrate the cultivation matrix. When using the immersion pot method, place the flower pot in a shallow water dish for 15 minutes to allow the matrix to absorb water fully through capillary action.
Water Source Selection and Treatment Process
The ideal water sources are rainwater > pure water > exposed tap water. When collecting rainwater, it is necessary to filter impurities, and pure water should maintain a pH value between 6.0-7.0. Tap water must undergo a 48-hour static treatment to eliminate residual chlorine and fluoride. Professional players can add a small amount of ferrous sulfate (0.1g/L) to adjust the water hardness.
Dynamic Adjustment of Watering Cycle
In the spring germination period, keep the matrix slightly moist, with a 7-day cycle being the best for growth at a temperature of 20°C. In the hot summer period, shorten the watering interval to every 3 days, but avoid the high temperatures of noon. In the winter dormancy period, strictly control the water supply, with a 20-day cycle in a 10°C low-temperature environment. Use the bamboo stake test method to judge: if there is no moisture adhering after inserting the matrix for 2 hours, it is time to water.
Scientific maintenance needs to be combined with matrix improvement. It is recommended to use a mixing ratio of珍珠岩:赤玉土:腐叶土=5:3:2. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even light exposure, and strengthen ventilation during the rainy season to prevent the growth of mold. Immediately stop watering when the base of the ball body becomes soft and use the vermiculite wrapping method for emergency treatment.