A detailed guide to cactus fertilisation methods, and what kind of fertiliser is best

1. Fertilisation timing

When fertilising a cactus, it is mainly done during the period when it grows relatively fast, specifically from March to October. A moderate amount of fertiliser will help its growth to a certain extent.

2. Types of fertiliser

Cacti are not very demanding about the type of fertiliser; a general organic liquid fertiliser is enough. You can buy it from a shop, or make it yourself at home - for example, you can use hoof and horn, bone meal, etc., soaked in water, to make fertiliser.

3. Fertilisation methods

1. Whether it is homemade or bought from a shop, the fertiliser needs to be diluted with water before being applied. The specific ratio can be judged according to the fertiliser's instructions or the particular fertiliser you have made. After dilution, it can be poured onto the surface of the soil.

2. The frequency of fertilising a cactus can be decided according to the season. In spring and autumn it grows relatively fast, so you can keep it to once every half a month. Summer is the most vigorous growth period, so you can keep it to about once every 10 days.

4. Points to note

1. When choosing a fertiliser, be careful not to choose one that contains too much salt, as this kind of fertiliser is bad for the cactus's growth.

2. Also, in winter, which may happen to be the cactus's dormant period, it is not suitable to fertilise; it is better to hold off on fertilising until spring.