How to Prune a Cactus
As a star variety among succulents, the cactus is deeply favored by gardening enthusiasts for its unique shape and vibrant flowers. However, many people often encounter problems such as messy shapes and failed cuttage during the maintenance process. This article will systematically explain the core techniques for pruning and propagating cacti, helping you create a healthy and beautiful potted landscape.
Complete Guide to Cactus Pruning
Pruning Points Before Blooming
During the bud differentiation period (usually late spring to early summer), the first shaping pruning should be performed. Use gardening shears disinfected with alcohol, prioritizing the removal of malformed palm-shaped leaves and weak branches with a diameter less than 3mm. Retain the outer branches for交叉 growing branches, and keep the incision at a 45-degree angle to facilitate drainage. It is recommended to operate in the morning on sunny days, and spray a solution of carbendazim after pruning to prevent infection.
Advanced Pruning Techniques After Blooming
After the flowering period (about autumn), a second refined pruning is required. In addition to removing all remaining flowers, focus on handling dense branches: retain 2-3 robust branches at each growing point, spaced 3-5cm apart. Implement reduction pruning on branches older than 3 years, retaining 1-2 basal nodes to promote the germination of new buds. You can adopt a cloud-like or layered shape, and when pruning prominent branches, pay attention to maintaining the overall plant outline.
Complete Process of Cactus Propagation by Cuttage
Detailed Steps of Cuttage
Perform cuttage in spring or autumn (18-25°C), cutting 4-6 healthy stem segments, and apply wood ash to the cut surface to let it sit for 3-5 days. It is recommended to use a mixture of perlite, vermiculite, and coarse sand in a ratio of 1:1:2 as the growing medium, with a cutting depth of 2-3 segments. Maintain a slightly moist state of the growing medium and create an 80% humidity environment with a transparent cover, and new roots should emerge within about 15-20 days.
Key Points for Seedling Care After Rooting
Gradually increase the intensity of sunlight after rooting, maintaining a scattered light environment during the transition period. Apply a dilute liquid fertilizer for succulents at 2000 times every month. Pay attention to the condition of the basal leaves, and if they appear to shrink, water promptly. When new buds grow to 5cm, you can perform the first pinching to promote branching.
Advanced Tips for Cactus Shaping and Maintenance
It is recommended to repot every spring every 2 years, combined with pruning and root整理. During the high-temperature summer period, provide 50% shading, and maintain a wintering temperature above 10°C. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure even sunlight exposure, which can prevent the plant from leaning. Combining wire traction can create special shapes like a cliff, enhancing the artistic ornamental value.