How to take care of a cactus: tricks to have it beautiful

Although many people think that they are the last hope of those unskilled with plants, the truth is that this is not really the case. How to take care of a cactus is very simple but it has its peculiarities. Some that we cannot leave to chance if we do not want to see how, in a short time, our plant is damaged almost irremediably. And what is the usual reason? An excess of irrigation or, even, an absence of the light they need.

As a matter of plant evolution, cacti are plants accustomed to extreme conditions. For this reason, they are usually on the list of easy-care plants and are the choice of those who start in the world of gardening. But let this not mislead us. If we appreciate our plants, we cannot underestimate their care. Some that, although they are not very demanding, are extremely specific and that it is advisable to know in depth to enjoy these unique beauties of nature.

Having this clear, let’s see how to care for a cactus in detail. A task that will not only make us look at these plants with different eyes. In addition, it will allow us to make use of one of its qualities: they are one of the purifying plants that will clean your home par excellence.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF A CACTUS IN 5 TIPS

Before knowing its needs in depth, it is essential to know that cacti are not that boring plant that we initially have in mind. As much as we identify only the classic cactus, the truth is that this botanical family has 200 genera with about 2,500 species. A number that gives us an idea of ​​the versatility and variety that exists when talking about these plants. What’s more: despite the preconceived idea, no. Not all cacti have spikes. Something that is discovered when delving into this genus of plants.

Despite the individual peculiarities, the guidelines on how to care for a cactus are mostly common to all of them. A compelling reason to get to know them thoroughly and thus be able to enjoy their cultivation.

1. Light, one of the most important details of how to care for a cactus

We tend to think that, since they are plants that live mainly in deserts, they can withstand intense and direct light. However, the reality is not strictly like that. Although cacti need daily doses of light, the truth is that there are a good number of them that do not support direct sunlight. Something that will let us know by turning yellow or even whitening.

If we grow them indoors, the ideal is that we place them near an East-facing window. Grown outdoors, we will have to try not to receive sun in the central hours of greatest incidence.

2. The substrate, key to your well-being

Although we believe that the soil in which they grow is a minor matter, nothing is further from the truth. In fact, we can say that the substrate is the most important thing in how to care for a cactus.. Cacti have specific nutritional needs and, in addition, require a soil that favors the elimination of excess irrigation water. Two vital reasons for their well-being that force, yes or yes, to use a specific substrate for this type of plants.

Thanks to it, the roots of the cactus will be hydrated but without running the risk of getting waterlogged. In addition to this, it is essential to provide our plant with good drainage.

3. Irrigation, moderate and specific

Excess water is precisely one of the main reasons that kill cacti. But beware: even though they are drought-resistant plants, we cannot neglect their hydration, especially in the growing months. Therefore, from spring to the end of summer we will have to water regularly.

And here comes the golden question: how often is a cactus watered during the growing season? Simple: when the substrate, not the surface layer, is completely dry. Something that we will only know by inserting a finger or a toothpick into the ground. When there is no trace of moisture, it is time to water.

4. Temperature, another crucial aspect

Although they are off-road plants, make no mistake: they do not like the cold at all. While it is true that they can withstand cool, most cacti suffer a lot! exposed to temperatures below 8 degrees. What’s more: the sum of a substrate that is too wet and cold is synonymous with the appearance of fungi. Some bad companions that can compromise the life of our plant.

And since they are chilly, no: they do not tolerate frost.

5. The fertilizer, fundamental for the health of the plant

Despite being rustic plants and popular belief, cacti also need something extra. The successive irrigations wear out the soil and the water, in its path, usually takes with it many nutrients that are in the substrate.

For this reason, from the beginning of spring until the end of the development period, it is essential to apply a regular pattern of cactus-specific fertilizer. Not only will it give our plant what it needs to grow: in addition, these fertilizers are designed to make the plant retain water better.

TRICKS TO HAVE A BEAUTIFUL CACTUS

Just as important as knowing how to care for a cactus is having some tips to enjoy them even more. And it is that, despite being super resistant plants, they also have their little cultivation secrets.

1. Do not water it during the resting season

Forget him! From autumn to spring, your cactus will be in a rest period and, therefore, will not need water. Respecting him is synonymous with health for him.

2. When you water it, do it properly

Do not skimp with the water believing that it will make you feel bad. Water deeply when you do, making sure your plant has good drainage.

3. Use a preventive fungicide

Key code! As we said before, fungi are one of the main enemies of cacti. And, for this reason and because of how difficult they are to eliminate, prevention is better than cure.

How? Applying a preventive fungicide twice a year. Not only will it protect our plant from bad companies, but it will also help increase its natural defenses against this type of attack.

4. Ally with the mud

We often wonder what are the best pots for succulents, but not for cacti. And yes: both coincide. Clay pots are ideal, as they facilitate the evaporation of water. A fantastic way to prevent excess moisture from playing tricks on us.

5. The more spikes, the more sun tolerance

A trick to know your sun tolerance level, in addition to knowing your needs, is related to your spikes. The more a cactus has, the greater its ability to receive direct sun.

Do you have any questions about how to care for a cactus? Let us know! We will be happy to help you enjoy these natural beauties.