Detailed steps and methods for propagating golden barrel cactus by cutting the top off
The golden barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii) is a perennial herbaceous succulent plant in the cactus family, Cactaceae. This species is native to the hot, dry desert regions of central Mexico; it has been introduced to China and is widely cultivated in various places. It thrives at high altitude, with ample sunlight and mild winters. So, how do you propagate a golden barrel cactus by cutting off the top?
1. How do you propagate a golden barrel cactus by cutting off the top?
Cut off the top of the golden barrel cactus body at 1/3 from the top downward, and many offsets will grow from the edge of the cut. Offsets 2-4 cm in size can be grafted onto a three-ribbed cactus (Hylocereus undatus). After one year, the offset can reach 8-10 cm in diameter; then cut the three-ribbed cactus away from the base of the ball, place the ball in a dry, ventilated, shaded spot to air for 3-5 days, and then plant the ball in a pot. After 30-50 days the ball will take root.
2. Fertilization methods
In spring, fertilize frequently with a weak solution, once a week. In May and June, once every 4 or 5 days, with a slightly higher concentration. Do not fertilize during the high temperatures of midsummer. In September and October, fertilize once a week; from November to the following spring, do not fertilize. Use poultry or fish meat scraps or poultry manure, rotted and diluted with water, applied at 9-10 a.m. or after 5 p.m.; water again one day after fertilizing.
3. Notes on cultivation
Pay attention to keeping it warm; the golden barrel cactus is not cold-tolerant. When the temperature drops to about 5°C, move it indoors to a sunny spot, keep the potting soil dry, and be careful to guard against cold drafts.
A small cultivation trick: under conditions that ensure the light and temperature requirements are met, make a tube out of perforated plastic film and cover the entire ball and flowerpot with it, creating a small environment of high temperature and high humidity. Golden barrel cacti cultivated this way grow larger relatively quickly, and their spines become very hard.