Caring for cacti (singular for cactus) is simple and rewarding, even for beginners. These prickly plants thrive in dry environments and require minimal attention. With just a few basic steps, you can ensure your cactus stays healthy and happy. From proper watering techniques to finding the right amount of sunlight, understanding how to care for your cactus will guarantee its longevity and vibrant growth
This Is How You Take Care Of Cactus
Despite being filled with thorns, cacti plants appear beautiful, which is why many people prefer cultivating them at home. They can be propagated from cuttings and seeds, offering flexibility in their cultivation.
If you plant these succulent plants in sandy soil at home, following certain factors is essential to do it correctly. Here are some things to know
Prepare Suitable Soil For Cactus
To prepare the soil for cacti, it should have excellent drainage to ensure that water does not accumulate for too long. Therefore, it is advisable to always use well-aerated or sandy soil that allows water to drain freely and maintains moisture. A suitable soil mixture can be prepared by combining 70% sand, 25% composted manure, and 5% neem cake. Additionally, for propagating cactus from seeds, coco peat can also be incorporated along with the soil. This blend provides an ideal growing medium for cacti, promoting healthy root development and overall plant growth.
Use Of Suitable Fertiliser For Cactus
While most plants require nitrogen-rich fertilisers, cacti do not necessarily need them. Instead, fertilisers containing phosphorus and potassium are more suitable for cacti. These fertilisers can be applied once a year to provide essential nutrients to the plants. A recommended method is to mix 2 grams of vermicompost or neem cake in 1 litre of water and use this solution for fertilising cacti. In case of any fungal or bacterial issues, sanitisers can be used as a precautionary measure. This approach ensures that cacti receive the necessary nutrients without the risk of over-fertilisation, supporting their healthy growth and development throughout the year.
Giving Access To Quality Sunlight
Cacti require ample sunlight, although they should be protected from intense heat during the summer months. Therefore, if you are placing them outdoors, it’s advisable to provide shade from the scorching sun by using a green net. While cacti need at least 4 hours of sunlight, the ideal time for exposure is considered to be between 10 AM to 1 PM. This ensures that they receive sufficient sunlight without being exposed to the harshest rays. Proper sunlight exposure is crucial for the growth and health of cacti, aiding in their photosynthesis and overall development.
Appropriate Watering Management
Cacti have lower water requirements compared to other plants, so it’s essential to check the soil before watering them. Only water the cactus when the top 2 inches of soil have dried out. Additionally, during hot weather, you can water the cactus once every three days. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it’s crucial to maintain a careful balance and avoid excessive moisture. By monitoring the soil moisture levels and adjusting the watering frequency accordingly, you can ensure the optimal health and growth of your cacti.
How is Cactus Useful To Society?
– Cactus plants are utilised in the production of medicines related to hair, weight, diabetes, and other health concerns.
– Various cosmetic products are crafted from its flowers.
– Christmas cacti release oxygen during the night, contributing to a fresher environment, while also absorbing carbon dioxide.
Conclusion
Through this blog, we have learned about
- Taking care of a cacti plant while growing
- The usefulness of Cactus.
There is a myth that cactus is not a useful or productive plant but as you read, it’s a myth! Which is not correct. Cactus is involved in many useful things. It is used in the manufacturing of many products and sometimes also helps environmental upliftment. There are enough reasons to grow cactus as a meaningful plant.