4/7/2023 0 Comments Barrel cactus![]() Pruning InstructionsĬactus and succulent plants can be pruned to remove dead or damaged parts or to maintain a specific size or shape. A single application can often provide plants with the proper level of nutrition all season long.Ī general-purpose fertilizer for house plants can be used for feeding cacti or succulents but it must be diluted to one quarter the strength of the normal rate. Slow-release fertilizers are an especially good, care-free choice for container plants. Too much fertilizer can damage plants so it’s important to follow the package directions to determine how much, and how often, to feed plants. Determine which application method is best for the situation and select a product with a nutritional balance designed for cactus and succulent plants. Fertilizing Instructionsįertilizers are available in many forms: granulated, slow-release, liquid feeds, organic or synthetic. Some species may even go dormant for a few months in winter. Plant may require less water during the winter months when it’s growing more slowly because of lower light levels. Check the soil moisture with your finger. Discard any excess water that has accumulated in the pot’s saucer.ĭon’t water again until the top 1-2” (3-5cm) of soil is completely dry. This indicates that the soil is thoroughly wet. Water the entire soil area until water runs out the base of the pot. Watering InstructionsĪpply water at the soil level if possible to avoid wetting the plant. If a larger pot is needed choose one not more than 1-2” (3-5cm) larger in diameter than the existing pot. Unless the roots are pot-bound the same container can be used. For spiny plants, use a stick, spatula, or other utensil to move the soil and to keep distance between your hands and the spines. Place it in the planting hole and press soil firmly around the roots, just covering the root ball. Once the plant is moved to its new pot and secure, then the wrappings can be carefully removed. Tape the outer layer of paper closed at several points to hold snug. Wrap gently, not too tight, so as not to crush the spines. ![]() For exceptionally large or spiny plants follow with a layer of newspaper or wrapping paper for extra protection. For moving larger plants, a good method is to wrap the plant with paper towel or tissue paper. Small plants may be safely moved using kitchen tongs. Rubber gloves should be fine if handling small-spined plants but if the plant has long or sharp needles, leather gloves offer more protection. If the plant is spiny be sure to wear gloves for protection. Make a hole in the center of the soil large enough to hold the root ball of the plant. Prepare the container by filling with potting soil up to 2” (5cm) from the rim of the planter. Select a container with a drainage hole or be prepared to drill holes for drainage if there are none. If you choose to make your own soil mix, combine equal parts sand and general purpose potting soil. Many are available with a mild starter fertilizer in the mix. That will ensure that the soil is sterile and pest-free. Start with a good quality, commercial potting soil for Cacti and Succulents.
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