Cactus are fascinating plants known for their unique appearance and ability to thrive in arid environments. While they are generally low-maintenance, many people unknowingly make mistakes when caring for their cacti.?
This is the biggest cactus killer. Cacti are desert dwellers and adapted to thrive on little water. Overwatering leads to root rot, mushy stems, and ultimately, a sad demise. Water only when the soil is completely dry, usually once every 2-4 weeks. In winter, even less!
Cacti crave sunshine! Place them in a bright window with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light slows growth, weakens the plant, and makes it susceptible to disease.
Regular potting mix holds too much moisture for your cactus. Opt for a well-draining cactus mix with sand, perlite, or pumice to allow water to drain quickly. A pot with drainage holes is crucial too!??
Cacti don't need much fertilizing. Overfertilizing can burn their roots and stunt growth. If you choose to fertilize, use a diluted cactus fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season (spring and summer).??
While relatively pest-resistant, cacti can fall victim to mealybugs, scale, and fungal infections. Regularly inspect your plant and address any issues promptly with natural insecticides or fungicides.
Resist the urge to constantly report. Cacti like snug spaces, and repotting too often can stress them out. If necessary, repot only when the plant outgrows its current pot, using an appropriate cactus mix and a pot 1-2 inches larger.
So, if you have a cactus, make sure to take care of it properly.
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