How long after planting Opuntia microdasys does it bloom? Detailed care tips and precautions

Opuntia microdasys, of the genus Opuntia, native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, shrub-like, with stems generally round. Let's take a look together at how long after planting Opuntia microdasys blooms, how to care for it so it grows well, and what to watch out for.

1. How long after planting does Opuntia microdasys bloom?

Generally speaking, if it is a cutting-propagated Opuntia microdasys, it will take at least three years to bloom; if it is seed-propagated, it takes even longer, requiring five years to bloom, and only those cultivated particularly well may bloom earlier. So even among people who have grown Opuntia microdasys themselves, some have never seen it bloom.

2. How to care for it so it grows well?

1. Light

Opuntia microdasys likes sunlight, so during the growing period it should be given plenty of light, especially when it is blooming, because blooming consumes a large amount of nutrients, so during the flowering period it must be kept in a spot with light.

2. Fertilizer and water

Opuntia microdasys must absolutely not be given chemical fertilizer. In spring and from late summer to early autumn, apply decomposed liquid fertilizer twice every half month. If chemical fertilizer is used, it easily causes the roots of Opuntia microdasys to rot. In addition, Opuntia microdasys likes dryness and dislikes moisture, much like cacti, so do not water too much each time; if the soil stays too wet for a long time, root rot is also likely.

3. What should be noted?

First, prepare a relatively large pot (a coarse clay pot is preferable), mix the soil well, and keep it slightly moist. Select some sturdier stem segments (one node is enough) and plant them in the pot, then spray with water so that the surface of the potting soil binds together, and then place it directly under the blazing sun. Do not water often; keep the potting soil dry. This is the method to force the growth of pad-shaped stem segments. After a period of time, some stems will begin to grow small golden spines, and then the newly grown stems will begin to become slightly flatter and wider, showing a tendency toward pad shapes. If it is kept relatively moist from the very beginning, then the new stems will not show a tendency toward pad shapes, but will grow in the same form as the original plant.

When the stem pads have grown to about 2cm wide (around late summer at this time), pick out the flattened plants, use pots with a diameter of about 12cm, plant three per pot, and then enter the general normal management stage (still in full sun). From late summer into early autumn, it is precisely the period of vigorous growth. At this time, pay attention to ensuring sufficient light, and you may apply a relatively dilute liquid fertilizer once, then apply it again half a month later. During this period, the stem pads generally keep their original width, but will continue to grow taller until the growing period ends.