Love Cactus: Simple To Grow, Care, Save The Best Way
Love Cactus: Simple To Grow, Care, Save The Best Way
Love cactus and cactus clubs from any part of the world to know about cactus plants like the red cactus plant, Opuntia, Echinopsis, Mammillaria, and Hylocereus undatus, but also about cactus wren, cactus mouse, and camel-eating cactus plants. This article describes the largest cactus in the world, the tallest cactus in the world, and also the poisonous cactus.
Cactus plants are famous desert flora known for their distinctive appearance and ability to thrive in arid environments. These are the succulent plants characterized by their thick, fleshy modified parts, often covered in spines and prickles, which help them conserve water and protect them from desert animals.
Cacti are found in a variety of shapes and sizes, from tiny pebble-like plants to very tall and towering saguaros. They have desert adaptations to survive in harsh dry and hot conditions by storing water in their fleshy parts, reducing water loss through their modified tiny leaves, and using deep, widespread root systems to efficiently absorb moisture from deeper layers of the soil.
Contents - Cactus
Cactus Sizes
Cactus Types
Cactus plants belong to the plant family Cactaceae. There are many types of cactus species with unique features. The popular cactus types are the prickly pear (Opuntia), the barrel cactus (Echinocactus), the saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea), the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera), the bishop's cap (Astrophytum), the peyote (Lophophora williamsii), the old man cactus (Cephalocereus senilis), and the golden barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii).
The best flowering cactus is the hedgehog cactus (Echinopsis). Orchid cactus (Epiphyllum), Christmas cactus or Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera), Gymnocalycium, and Mammillaria are other flowering cacti.
A poisonous cactus contains alkaloids, especially hallucinogens. Peyote (Lophophora williamsii), San Pedro cactus (Echinopsis pachanoi), Night-blooming cereus (Selenicereus), and True cactus (Euphorbia spp) are the poisonous cacti.
Some of the most famous cactus plants available in plant nurseries are listed below:
A table showing a list of the most common cactus plants
Cactus Culture, Cactus Tips, Cactus How to Take Care, Cactus Care for Beginners
Cactus culture involves cactus planting, cactus care, cactus growing tips, cactus maintenance, and several key measures to ensure these plants survive and thrive
1. Cactus Need Light:
Many cacti need plenty of sunlight to grow well. So, place cacti in a location where they can receive direct sunlight for at least a few hours a day.
2. Cactus Plants Watering:
Cacti are adapted to dry environments. They are sensitive to overwatering. Cactus need water, but the cactus watering guide suggests watering sparingly and allowing the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Cactus watering in winter involves less frequency and sparingly with cold water.
3. Cactus grow in which soil? How to make cactus soil?:
Cacti generally grow well in well-draining soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is a mixture of regular potting soil and sand and some quantity of pumice, biochar, or rice husk. The soil should not be waterlogged as it leads to root rotting. Avoid overdose of organic matter.
4. Cactus Temperature:
Most cacti grow during warm temperatures and become dormant during cooler temperatures.
5. Propagating a Cactus:
Cactus plants can be propagated through offsets, cuttings, and seeds.
a. Cactus Offsets:
Some cacti produce offsets called pups or babies around the base. These offsets can be removed and planted in a well-draining soil mix in a pot.
b. Cactus Cutting:
Cutting from a healthy cactus can be done using a sharp, sterile knife.
Rooting cactus:
It involves allowing the cut end of the cutting to callus in a few days, then planting in a well-draining soil mix.
c. Cactus Seeds:
Seeds from a mature cactus fruit can be collected or purchased online. The seeds are sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination.
6. Planting Cactus, Replanting Cactus, Transplanting Cactus, Potting Cactus, or Repotting Cactus:
Generally transplant cacti during the active growth phase, typically in spring or early summer. Choose a new container that is slightly larger than the present one and has drainage holes. Use only a well-draining succulent potting mix. Carefully remove the cactus plant from its pot without damaging its roots or the plant parts. Place the cactus in the centre of the new pot and fill in around the sides with the carefully prepared soil mix. Gently press the filled soil mix down around the base of the cactus.
7. Pruning Cactus:
Pruning cacti involves removing dead or damaged parts or giving shape to the plant. Use only clean, sharp pruning shears and do not forget to wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp piercing spines. Cut the damaged part close to the main stem or at a joint.
8. Cactus Flower Care:
Cactus plants flower well when they receive plenty of sunlight, warm temperatures, and moderate water, and avoid chemicals to attract pollinators. Cactus plants cannot flower well when they receive less sunlight, cooler temperatures, and excess water. Provide proper support for the cactus flowers if they are larger or heavy enough to prevent them from bending or breaking the cactus stem.
9. Fertilizing Cactus Plants:
Fertilize cacti sparingly only during the growing season - spring and summer. Use a balanced (NPK) water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half its strength. Apply the soluble fertilizer to moist soil only. Always avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months. Over-fertilizing can damage cactus plants.
9. Pests and Disease of Cactus:
Cacti are generally infested with pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Use prophylaxis or therapeutic measures. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot disease.
Cactus Rust:
It is caused by the fungus pathogen Phyllosticta padensis. The rust disease is manifested with small, reddish-brown spots on cactus stems. To treat cactus rust, it is suggested to remove infected parts using sterilized tools and apply an effective fungicide. improve air circulation around, and avoid overhead watering to prevent secondary infection.
11. Cactus Shrinking, Cactus Dying, Dehydrated Cactus, or Dead Cactus Plant:
Cactus plants can shrink, appear dehydrated, or die due to several reasons. They may be extreme surrounding temperatures, underwatering, overwatering, poor drainage, or pests and diseases. Avoid cactus dying by adjusting watering quantity and frequency, improving soil drainage, providing adequate sunlight, and treating pests and diseases.
12. Care for Small Cactus, Mini Cactus Care, Miniature Cactus Care, or Tiny Cactus Care:
Miniature cactus plants require similar care as that of larger cacti but in smaller doses. Handle miniature cacti with care due to their small size and spines.
By following the above guidelines, you can create suitable growing conditions for your cacti to thrive and enjoy their unique beauty.
Use of Cactus
Cactus plants have several uses as listed below:
1. Ornamental Cactus Plants:
Many cactus plants are grown as ornamental plants because of their attractive shapes, sizes, and colourful flowers.
2. Edible Cactus Fruit:
The cactus species, prickly pear (Opuntia) produces edible fruits that are eaten raw or used in various culinary dishes. Other cactus plants are also eaten in various parts of the world, particularly in Mexico and Central America.
Cactus Eating:
The fruit of prickly pear is known as "tunas" or "nopales." The fruits are sweet and can be eaten raw or used in culinary dishes like jams, jellies, and beverages. They are also used in salads, soups, and other preparations. These fruits are rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
3. Cactus Milk:
Cactus milk is called cactus juice or cactus water. It is a liquid extracted from some cactus plants, especially the prickly pear (Opuntia). It is obtained by crushing and straining the fruit or pads of the cactus plant. Cactus milk is known for its refreshing and hydrating properties in the Western world. Cactus milk is used in smoothies, cocktails, or simply enjoyed on its own. It is low in calories but rich in antioxidants, vitamins (C and B6) and minerals (magnesium, and potassium). It is also rich in fibre content to aid in digestion.
4. Medicinal Uses of Cactus:
Peyote (Lophophora williamsii) is traditionally used for its medicinal properties.
5 Landscaping with Cactus Plants:
Several cactus plants are commonly used in xeriscaping and drought-tolerant landscaping because of their low water requirements and ability to thrive in dry environments.
6. Cactus for Environmental Protection:
Cactus plants play an important role in dry ecosystems by providing habitat and food for insects, reptiles, birds, and other animals.
7. Traditional and Cultural Uses of Cactus Plants:
In some cultures, cactus plants have cultural and spiritual significance as they are used in rituals and ceremonies.
8. Soil Erosion Control through cactus:
The deep root systems of cactus plants bind soil particles firmly and help prevent soil erosion in dry and desert environments.
9. Decorative and Craft Uses of Cactus:
Skeletons and spines of cactus plants are used in crafts and decorative art projects.
Cactus Organisations
Cactus Club:
It is a club or group that has a particular interest in cactus plants, whether for cactus collection, gardening, conservation, or other purposes.
Cactus and Succulent Society:
It is a group or organization meant for the collection, cultivation, study, and appreciation of cacti and other succulent plants from different parts of the world. This kind of society brings together enthusiasts, hobbyists, and experts who share a passion for cactus and succulent plants. One of the most famous societies is Cactus and Succulent Society of America.
Points to Remember - Cactus
2. Most cactus plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive, flower and fruit.
3. Use a well-draining soil mixture to prevent waterlogging and consequent decay and death of plants.
4. Use containers with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
5. Cactus plants prefer warm temperatures.
6. Fertilize sparingly during the growing season, not in dormant condition.
7. Minimal pruning is required to remove dead or damaged parts.
8. Treat mealybugs and spider mites that affect plant parts.
9. Some cactus species pass through a dormant phase during which avoid fertilising and overwatering.
10. Handle cactus plants with care to avoid injury from sharp piercing spines by wearing protective hard gloves.
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Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQs)
Ques. What is a cactus famous for? Or Why is cactus special?
Ans. The Cactus plant can conserve water, survive in the driest conditions of deserts, and provide habitat, water and food for desert birds and animals.
Ques. What are a few facts about cactus?
Cacti have been as old as dinosaurs.
Cactus features in Mexico's flag.
They photosynthesise in reverse.
It lives for 15 to 300 years, depending on the species.
Cactus roots can reach up to 7 feet (2.1m) in diameter, although being just a few inches deep in the ground.
Ques. What are the benefits of opuntia cactus? What fruit grows on the cactus?
Ans. Prickly pear cactus (Opuntia) is an edible cactus used for treating diabetes, high cholesterol in the blood, obesity and hangovers. It also has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Both the pads (nopales) and the fruit (tunas) of prickly pear are edible. Cactus fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C and betalain and potassium content in cactus are good for digestion.
Ques. Why do people love cactus? Or Why do people like cactus?
Ans. People love cactus plants because they have attractive shapes and beautiful flowers, can be grown indoors and in dry conditions, and have medicinal properties.
Ques: Is cactus good for your skin?
Ans. Cactus extract is rich in linoleic acid that removes and flushes the excess sebum from the pores. In addition to being anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial.
Ques. How long do cactus live?
Ans. Caucus species are slow growers and can live for many years. The Saguaro cactus can live up to 175 years. They cannot grow their first arms until they are between 75 and 100 years old.
Ques. Can we drink cactus water?
Ans. We cannot drink cactus water because of its acidic nature.
Ques. Is dragon fruit a cactus?
Ans. Yes, the dragon fruit is also a cactus plant.