How to care for a newly bought Echinopsis cactus
As a颜值担当 in the cactus family, Echinopsis cacti have become a favorite for beginners thanks to their brilliant flowers and easy-care nature. However, to grow a healthy plant that blooms every year, it is necessary to master five key elements. This article systematically analyzes core techniques such as light control and temperature adjustment through three years of practical experience in maintenance.
Basic care points for Echinopsis cacti
Light management plan
6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily can ensure the compactness of the cactus, and it is recommended to provide full-day sun exposure in spring and autumn. In summer, it is necessary to set up a sunshade net from 11-15 o'clock to prevent the cactus from developing brown sunburn spots. During indoor maintenance in winter, it should be placed within 30 cm from a south-facing window.
Temperature regulation strategy
Maintaining a day-night temperature difference of 8-12℃ can promote bud differentiation, and the night temperature should not be lower than 12℃. During the winter dormancy period, a low temperature of 5-10℃ is required for vernalization, but it is important to note the critical point of low temperature: when the room temperature ≤ 5℃, heating equipment should be started to prevent frost damage.
Advanced care techniques
Scientific watering system
Adopt the "dry-wet alternation method," watering thoroughly after the potting soil is completely dry for 3 days. It is recommended to use a尖嘴壶 (sharp spout pot) to slowly pour water along the pot wall to avoid冲击 (impact) from water flow. During the rainy season, the watering interval can be extended to 15 days, and the effect is better when combined with the use of a fan.
Precise fertilization plan
Apply phosphorus-potassium ratio 3:1 water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season from April to June, watering twice a month diluted 2000 times. In late September, increase the application of bone meal, evenly spreading 15g per pot on the soil surface, which can increase the overwintering resistance by 40%.
Secrets of propagation and cultivation
When the side buds grow to 1/3 the size of the mother cactus, they should be separated, and the cut surface should be treated with sulfur powder and left to dry for 5-7 days. Use a substrate mixture of volcanic rock: vermiculite at a ratio of 7:3 for cutting, maintaining an environment of 25℃ and humidity of 60%, roots can grow in 20 days.
By scientifically controlling the four key elements of light, water, temperature, and fertilizer, and combining regular potting and root pruning, Echinopsis cacti can maintain their blooming vitality for 3-5 years. Remember the care ironclad rule of "better dry than wet," and even beginners can easily achieve a blooming state.