Tips for Replanting Cactus
Replanting your cactus plants requires some specific knowledge and care in order to be successful. Though Cacti are very hardy plants capable of surviving in a wide range of conditions, they do like to be kept warm and dry. Most varieties thrive in a sandy loam kind of soil. When replanting, examine the root system and trim away any damaged roots. Keep the plants dry until new roots start forming. This can take days to weeks depending on climatic conditions.
During the winter months when your plant is dormant, you don't have to water at all. Keep the plant dry, especially if you are in an area where there are low temperatures. Once the plant becomes active, it is important to start watering it. You should water it two to four times a month during its growing season. Make sure to soak the ground around the cactus and rely on your soil to drain the excess water away from the root system. If the plant is exposed to a protracted period of rain, it should be sheltered. Avoid watering with chlorinated water because it will cause the plant to develop white spots.
The cactus plant needs regular feedings of nutrients during the growing season, which is the spring and summer. Mineral rich fertilizers that have potassium to encourage flower and fruit growth, phosphorus for root growth, and nitrogen for top growth work best.
The ideal minimum temperature for a cactus is 61 degrees F. The plant needs direct or filtered sunlight for photosynthesis. If you are growing the plants in a greenhouse or indoors, fluorescent lighting will work well. Use a gritty soil mixture that drains well. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil. It doesn't need much depth of soil, just enough to support the plant. The cactus is very resistant to disease and pests but can fall victim to fungus and other infections. Avoid excessive moisture and keep good growing conditions and you will have success with this hardy bloomer.
