How to grow small cactus and what to pay attention to

Growth habits of small cactus

The small cactus has a certain degree of drought resistance, so the amount of watering should be controlled. It is better to keep it slightly dry during the dormant period. Liquid fertilizer should be applied once every half a month during the growing period, and fertilization should be stopped during the dormant period. It cannot tolerate low temperatures of 0 degrees. It needs shade in winter and humidity shade in summer, but excessive shade will cause it to not bloom. It is suitable for planting in fertile, well-drained and breathable sandy loam containing lime.

Light requirements: Although the small cactus likes sunlight, it needs to avoid direct sunlight in the summer, especially seedlings and smaller plants, which need to be shaded, otherwise sunburn will occur.

Growth temperature: The suitable growth temperature for cactus is between 20 and 35 degrees. If it is below 20 degrees, it will grow slowly. If the ambient temperature is below 10 degrees, it will stop growing. If it is below 0 degrees, it will freeze to death.

How to grow small cactus

To care for a small cactus, you need to use flower soil that is not easy to harden and is easy to drain. Place it on a windowsill or balcony and receive sufficient light. After the soil becomes dry, you can water it and apply liquid fertilizer once every 15 days.

Watering of small cactus: Small cactus likes a humid environment. It can be watered in the morning and evening in summer. In winter, the demand for water is less, so the watering can be controlled. It is generally done in the morning on a sunny day with plenty of sunshine. In spring and autumn, you can water it appropriately to keep the soil slightly moist. Do not water from the top each time you water it, otherwise ugly spots will be left on the ball.

Fertilization of small cactus: Small cactus can be applied with fermented fertilizer, or fertilizer with low salt content, such as nitrogen fertilizer, phosphorus and potassium fertilizer, etc. Summer is its growing season, and fertilizer can be applied every 10 days. In spring and autumn, fertilizer can be applied every half a month, and fertilization should be stopped in October.

Cuttings of small cactus: It is best to carry out cuttings of small cactus in April and May every year. Cut large branches with branches for cuttings and keep them in semi-shaded place. At this time, the wound should not be exposed to water. It will take about 20 days to take root.

Precautions for caring for small cactus

If you keep a small cactus on a high-rise balcony, you need to cover it with a layer of net, because many birds like to peck at it, and this can serve as a protection.