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Culture: Easy to to care and flower.
No absolute schedule can be given for watering as various factors
(soil mixture, containers, drainage, temperature, size of plant)
influence water use, so - as a general rule - the soil should be
thoroughly wetted at each watering during the active growing season
(spring and summer); water when the top 1,5- 2 cm of soil feels dry to
the fingers. Do not soak the soil during the
dormant period. Be careful. Excessive watering can make root and/or stem rot. Make sure there is
good air circulation between plants. Good drainage is essential, along
with good moisture retention properties and adequate nutrients availability.
Requires bright sunlight to grow well. Dormant plants do best at
temperatures from 5-10°C (but will tolerate -5° for short periods). The
cooler temperatures develop sturdier plants and encourage the formation
of flower buds.
Pests: The narrow ribs, the woolly areoles, and the dense spines
are an ideal habitat for mealy bugs. Frequent inspection of the plants
will prevent them from spreading. |