What are the cultivation methods and key technical points for the cactus ball

The cactus ball is actually what we usually call the cactus (ball cactus), a plant whose spherical stem, spines and flowers all have high ornamental value, and which also has the effect of absorbing dust and purifying the air. So, what are the cultivation methods for the cactus ball?

1. Soil

The soil for cactus requires good drainage and air permeability, and a sandy soil (or sandy loam) containing calcareous material. It can be made by mixing 2 parts sandy loam, 2 parts leaf mold, 3 parts coarse sand, plus 1 part limestone gravel or old lime wall debris discarded when old buildings are demolished; it can also be made by mixing 2 parts loam, 2 parts coarse sand, and 1 part each of broken bricks, leaf mold and old lime wall debris. When planting, a small amount of broken bricks and tiles should be placed at the bottom of the pot to ensure smooth drainage.

2. Environment

The cactus likes high temperatures and a dry environment, with a suitable temperature of 10-30°C. If the temperature is too low, the root system is prone to rot, but if the temperature is too high, scale insect damage is likely to occur. The cactus requires plenty of sunlight, but in summer it must not be exposed to strong direct sunlight and needs appropriate shading. For indoor cultivation, lighting can be used to make it grow robustly.

3. Watering

The cactus requires a dry environment and is afraid of water accumulating in the pot soil, so the pot soil should usually be kept “dry then wet”. It is best to water with water that has been left to stand in the sun. Note that when watering, it must be watered thoroughly, and it must not be watered too much; watering once every 1-2 months is enough.

4. Fertilizing

Although the cactus tolerates poor soil and drought, it is not easy for it to bloom when it is both dry and lacking fertilizer. Therefore, appropriate water and fertilizer should be given during cultivation; in the growing season, apply a dilute, well-rotted cake fertilizer once every 10 days to half a month. Fertilizing must not be excessive either, as excessive amounts can also lead to failure to bloom.

5. Repotting

When repotting, apply a small amount of base fertilizer at the bottom of the pot. Cut off some of the old roots, let them dry for 4-5 days and then plant them in the pot. Do not plant too deep; it is best for the root crown of the ball to be level with the soil surface. To avoid causing root rot, do not water newly planted cactus balls; just spray 2-3 times a day, and after half a month a small amount of water can be given. Only after new roots grow out one month later can watering be gradually increased.

6. Pest and disease control

In environments with high temperatures and poor ventilation, pests and diseases are likely to occur. For diseases, carbendazim or thiophanate can be sprayed; for pests, dimethoate can be sprayed to kill them. Whichever medicinal solution is sprayed, it must be done outdoors.

The cactus ball has strong vitality. When cultivating it, everyone should note not to water too much and not to fertilize excessively. I hope the above content can help everyone.