Cacti are very common indoor ornamental plants, and many people like to grow them in their homes. However, many people do not know the timing and precautions for repotting cacti when caring for them, which leads to growth problems. This article will introduce the repotting timing and precautions of cacti in detail, hoping to help readers in need.
What is repotting?
Repotting means taking the plant out of its original pot, placing it in a new pot, and adding new soil.
Why repot?
As cacti grow, they will gradually deplete the nutrients in the original soil. If the soil is not replaced in time, it can lead to problems such as slow growth, yellowing, and wilting. Additionally, as cacti grow, they will gradually become larger, and the original pot may be too small, requiring a larger pot.
Timing for repotting cacti
Generally, the best time to repot cacti is in spring or autumn. During these seasons, the temperature is suitable, and the plants grow vigorously, allowing them to better absorb nutrients after the soil is replaced.
Choosing a new pot
Before repotting, you need to prepare a suitable new pot. The new pot should be slightly larger than the original one, which is beneficial for the cactus's growth. In terms of material, it is recommended to use clay or plastic pots, as these materials have good air permeability and drainage.
Preparing new soil
You also need to prepare new soil for repotting. It is recommended to use a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix of leaf mold and peat moss. You can buy pre-made soil from a plant store or mix it yourself.
Preparations before repotting
Before repotting, you need to water the cactus thoroughly to make it easier to remove. At the same time, prepare the new pot and new soil, and you will also need a clean container to hold the removed cactus.
Removing the cactus from the original pot
When removing the cactus from its original pot, gently tap the pot walls to loosen the roots, then gently pull it out. If the roots are tightly packed, you can use scissors to cut them.
Trimming the cactus's roots
After removing the cactus, you need to carefully check the roots. If you find any diseased, pest-infested, or damaged roots, they need to be cut off. Then, gently shake the remaining roots up and down with your hands to help them spread out better.
Placing in the new pot
Spread a layer of new soil in the new pot, place the cactus in it, and then fill the gaps with new soil. When filling the soil, gently pat it down to make it firm.
Watering
After placing the cactus in the new pot, you need to water it thoroughly to help the new soil make better contact with the roots. When watering, you can add some liquid fertilizer to the soil surface, which is beneficial for the cactus to absorb nutrients.
Placement and light
After repotting, the cactus needs to be placed in a well-ventilated, sunny location. However, do not expose it to direct sunlight, as this can easily cause sunburn to the pads.
Precautions - Avoid frequent repotting
Although repotting is very important for the growth of cacti, do not do it too frequently, as this can easily harm the plant. Generally, repotting once a year is sufficient.
Precautions - Do not move the plant too much
After repotting, the cactus should be placed in a fixed location and not moved frequently, as this can easily affect its growth.
Precautions - Do not overwater
After repotting, do not overwater, as this can easily lead to root rot. It is recommended to check the soil moisture with your finger before watering, and only water when the soil is dry.
Repotting is a very important part of a cactus's growth cycle. Before repotting, you need to prepare a new pot and new soil. Then, take the cactus out of its original pot, trim the roots, place it in the new pot, and finally, water it thoroughly. In addition, during the maintenance process, you also need to pay attention to avoiding frequent repotting, moving the plant too much, and overwatering. Only by proper care can cacti grow healthily.