Cacti are diverse, with different shapes, sizes, colors, different thorns, and more. Cacti grow both outdoors in nature (you can read about the geography of cacti in our previous article) and at home under human care.
The main stages of cacti life circle are growth, blooming, fruiting. This life cycle lasts on average 6-7 months, then plant goes through a rest period.
However, not be disappointed when the plant grows slow or does not bloom, and maybe you’ve heard about their fruits for the first time?
As an ornamental plant, cactus is kept in greenhouses and at home. Note that given the variety of cacti, it is important to know your cactus to ensure proper care.
Tip # 1: Know your cactus!
You’ve probably heard that cactus doesn’t need much care, it’s easy to keep. That is true. Now remember how many times you’ve killed a cactus. Don’t be discouraged, here are some tips on how to treat your cacti.
Watering։
In winter, the cactus should be kept at 8-12°C and watered a little. You can determine the frequency of watering, considering the size of the cactus and the size of the pot. I am guided by the following principle: wet the soil so that the water reaches the roots, and then leave it until the soil surface is completely dry.
Tip # 2: If it is not possible to sustain the recommended temperature, take away the cactus from the window sill, move it to a warmer part of the house.
In summer, keep the cactus in a bright, warm, clean place with plenty of fresh air and water abundantly. Usually, I water so that the soil on the surface is moist.
Tip # 3: Leave a small hole in the bottom or corner side of the pot or treat the soil regularly.
Lighting:
Cactus loves light and rays. To remind, the cactus “feeds” not on heat but on rays. The most preferable place to keep cactus at home is on window sill. The best alternative place is in front of a computer or in a room equipped with gadgets.
Cactus can be deformed because of poor lighting.
Tip # 4: If you are an office worker, put a cactus in front of the computer. It absorbs radiation, reducing the negative impact of the computer on the eyes.
Transfer:
Given the growth of cactus, it should be moved from one pot to another. The best time of the transfer is the spring. Young cactus pots can be changed once a year upon the need. Even if you do not change the pot, it is recommended to refresh the soil.
Tip # 5: Avoid unnecessary cactus replacements.
Good to know
A cactus is a member of the plant family Cactaceae, a family comprising about 127 genera with some 1750 known species of the order Caryophyllales.
