How to grow a cactus tree? Cultivation methods and precautions

The cactus tree is a plant of the cactus family. Its trunk is straight and upright, with a certain ornamental value, and it is planted in most regions. So how should it be grown?

How to grow a cactus tree?

1. Watering

Water during the growing season, and water sparingly or even not at all during the dormant period. For epiphytic types, keep the winter temperature above 12°C, and you can water and spray water year-round; if the winter temperature stays below 12°C, watering can be reduced as appropriate and spraying stopped. When watering, follow this principle: “water thoroughly when dry, do not water when not dry”; the water temperature should be as close to the soil temperature as possible. In summer, water early (before sunrise) and late (after sunset); in winter, water between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.

2. Fertilizing

Fertilize in spring and autumn, once every 20 days, and it should be done in the early morning or at dusk on a sunny day. If the potting soil is relatively dry, sprinkle a little water on the potting soil before fertilizing. A concentration of 0.05%-0.2% is suitable, and watering thoroughly once the next morning gives even better results. Terrestrial types require fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorus and low in nitrogen, while epiphytic types require more nitrogen fertilizer.

3. Light

Terrestrial types prefer ample sunlight, especially in winter when they need full sunlight exposure. Generally, tall columnar and flat-shaped cacti are more tolerant of strong light and can be placed outdoors in summer without shading; smaller spherical types mostly prefer semi-shade in summer. During the high-temperature summer months of June to August, cover the top growth point of the golden barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii) and the area around it with a round piece of plastic film so that all parts of the sphere grow evenly. Epiphytic cacti, however, require semi-shade conditions year-round.

4. Repotting

Repot and change the soil once in spring (mid-March to early April) or autumn (September to mid-October). Stop watering 3-5 days before repotting. When repotting, first remove the plant from the pot and prune away the old roots, rotten roots and half-withered roots. Leave it in a cool, ventilated place to dry for 5-6 days, then replant.

In addition, the place where the potted cactus tree is placed must have good ventilation conditions, and the temperature must also be suitable.