How to grow Austrocylindropuntia subulata? Cultivation methods and precautions
Austrocylindropuntia subulata can become the general among cacti, and the difficulty in cultivation should be very low, because a general is surely strong and powerful, with a rugged appearance. But free-range growing should also look like free-range growing; free-range growing does not mean not caring, but rather a unique way of caring and training.
How to grow Austrocylindropuntia subulata
1. Growth habits of Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Austrocylindropuntia subulata, also called the cactus column, is a species under the genus Austrocylindropuntia in the cactus family, and Peru and Argentina are its places of origin. It is semi-shade tolerant and avoids shade and humidity. It likes a sunny, dry and warm growing environment, and is relatively drought tolerant. The suitable growing temperature is about 18-30°C, and in winter the room temperature needs to be kept above 5°C; when the temperature is too low, the leaves will turn slightly red.
2. Light
Place it in a warm and ventilated environment to grow, give it sufficient light, and in summer prevent exposure to intense sun by providing appropriate shading.
3. Watering
It requires alternating dry and wet conditions. Never water unevenly or too much, otherwise it may cause leaf drop and root rot. When watering, be sure to water thoroughly, and wait until the potting soil is completely dry before watering a second time.
4. Fertilizer
In the early growth stage of Austrocylindropuntia subulata, you can apply 5~10 granules of fertilizer, with an interval of about 7-10 days between applications.
5. Potting soil
For the soil, it is suitable to choose well-drained and well-ventilated peat soil mixed with small gravel for planting.
6. Toxicity
Austrocylindropuntia subulata belongs to the cactus family and is toxic and not edible, so it is best to place it away from children. If poisoning occurs, please go to the hospital immediately for proper treatment.
Cultivation methods and precautions for Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Austrocylindropuntia subulata is actually very easy to grow, and rugged management is recommended. Austrocylindropuntia subulata is a cactus family plant, and its flowers are red. Austrocylindropuntia subulata needs sufficient sunlight and well-drained soil. The soil can use 1 part peat soil, 2 parts loam and sand, and small gravel can also be added to the soil to ensure good drainage.
Austrocylindropuntia subulata likes a little more water than other cacti. Before watering, make sure the potting soil has already dried, and water thoroughly, otherwise it may cause leaf drop or even root rot. In winter, water should be controlled to keep the potting soil dry as much as possible, with basically no pests or diseases. In winter the room temperature must not be lower than 5°C, and the suitable growing temperature is 18-30°C. When the temperature is too low, the leaves of Austrocylindropuntia subulata will turn slightly red.
Uses of Austrocylindropuntia subulata
1. Ornamental use of Austrocylindropuntia subulata
The overall ornamental quality of the Austrocylindropuntia subulata plant is still relatively good, and it is suitable for potted cultivation and viewing.
The entire plant of Austrocylindropuntia subulata is emerald green, and the whole stem is covered with long spines, giving it a relatively unique ornamental value. Generally speaking, Austrocylindropuntia subulata is a relatively small plant, but after cultivation, some Austrocylindropuntia subulata can also grow to about 2 m——4 m, and with side shoots growing in clusters, it can be said to be a huge thing.
What is relatively rare is the flowers of Austrocylindropuntia subulata. Although flowering in Austrocylindropuntia subulata is relatively rare, its flowers mostly appear in summer, and when it blooms it produces red or orange-red flowers that can last for several days. Its ornamental value is still quite good.
2. Air-purifying use of Austrocylindropuntia subulata
In addition to its relatively good ornamental value, Austrocylindropuntia subulata also has the effect of beautifying the environment and purifying the air. Austrocylindropuntia subulata can carry out respiration, mostly at night, and can absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. At the same time, it can also absorb toxic gases and prevent radiation.
So, do not underestimate this Austrocylindropuntia subulata; it also has great uses. Growing a pot of Austrocylindropuntia subulata indoors is not only good-looking, but can also purify the environment.
Cutting propagation of Austrocylindropuntia subulata
When propagating Austrocylindropuntia subulata, the cutting method is the one most commonly used. Under normal conditions, cuttings of Austrocylindropuntia subulata can be taken in May——June, but if a suitable temperature can be maintained, cuttings can be taken all year round.
When propagating Austrocylindropuntia subulata by cuttings, the method is actually very simple. Cut a branch from the Austrocylindropuntia subulata plant, place it in a cool place to let the wound dry, and then carry out the cutting.
Put the cutting medium in a flower pot; clean plain sand is enough. Insert the Austrocylindropuntia subulata cutting into the soil, and then just keep the soil appropriately moist. Note: do not water too much. Wait until the Austrocylindropuntia subulata has taken root, and it has survived.
Although Austrocylindropuntia subulata is rugged, it carries the demeanor and dignity of a general. Although it is relatively thick and strong as an individual, it also produces a unique sense of beauty. Therefore, for tough girls and clumsy beginners, growing Austrocylindropuntia subulata is very much in line with their own temperament.