How to Grow a Ball Cactus? Detailed Guide to Growing Methods and Precautions
The ball cactus, also known as the grass ball, Echinopsis tubiflora, Echinopsis 'Short Hair', pearl hedgehog cactus, and so on, is a green plant with a spherical or rounded shape. The ball cactus can absorb dust and purify the air, making it a natural air freshener, which is why many friends grow a pot of ball cactus. So what growing methods are there for the ball cactus? And what precautions are there for growing a ball cactus?
I. Growing Methods for the Ball Cactus
1. Choosing a Flower Pot
To grow a ball cactus, choose a ceramic pot with good breathability for planting. Mix leaf mold and sandy soil in equal amounts and put the mixture into the pot; you can also lay a layer of broken tiles at the bottom of the flower pot to make it more breathable and better draining.
2. Water and Fertilizer Management
When growing a ball cactus, fertilize it in moderation. Generally, during its growing period, apply a potassium phosphate fertilizer about once every 30 days. The fertilizer should be diluted so it is better absorbed, and watering should be done only after the potting soil turns white. Do not let water accumulate, so as to avoid root rot in waterlogged soil.
3. Light and Temperature
The light-loving ball cactus can also be given all-day sunlight when grown, so that it can carry out photosynthesis better. However, under strong summer light it needs appropriate shading, and its growing temperature should be kept at around 20°C, and above 10°C in winter.
II. Precautions for Growing a Ball Cactus
1. Repot Every Year
The ball cactus should be repotted once every year. Do not water it for three days before repotting, so the soil dries out. When repotting, part of the old roots should be cut off, and after drying for 4-5 days it can be planted in the pot. It should not be planted too deep; it is best for the root collar of the ball to be level with the soil surface. To avoid root rot, do not water a newly planted ball cactus; simply mist it 2-3 times a day. After half a month, a small amount of water can be given, and only after one month, when new roots have grown, can watering be gradually increased.
2. Avoid Puncture Injuries
The leaves of the ball cactus are needle-shaped small spines, so when growing it, avoid touching it to prevent puncture injuries. If there are children in the home, place the ball cactus somewhere they cannot reach, to prevent children from touching it and accidentally hurting themselves.
The above is the sharing of the growing methods and precautions for the ball cactus. If you are also interested in growing a ball cactus, why not give it a try right away!