General Cultivation 2

Watering and Feeding

Success of growing Cacti depends largely on the correct watering. Over-watering can lead to Black Rot and must be avoided at all costs. As a general rule for myself (living in the South of England) I water throughout the Spring and Summer from early-mid March to Early-mid September. The frequency however will depend upon the weather. It is important to only water when the compost is nearly dry. For the Winter months the plants are kept completely dry. They require this period of rest to encourage flowering. Feeding although important must not be overdone and only given when the plants are growing. There are a number of proprietary Cactus fertilisers available from Garden Centres I have used 'Chempak Formula 8' for many years with good results.

Light

Different species of cacti require different amounts of light depending on their original habitat. Desert Cacti require the brightest and sunniest possible position. Jungle and rainforest Cacti however dislike direct sunlight and benefit by being in the shade of larger plants.

Temperature

In the Summer months the temperature in the greenhouse can quite easily reach the dizzy heights of 30 deg C. With these high temperatures it is important to maintain good ventilation. It is also wise not to water or spray in direct sunshine as this can cause scorching.

In the winter the temperature can be allowed to fall to 8 deg C throughout the dormant period for the plants. It is best to heat the greenhouse using gas or electricity. I use an accurate thermostatically controlled electric greenhouse fan heater that can be set to switch on at the required temperature. A min-max thermometer is essential to keep track on the temperature changes. I would not recommend the use of Paraffin heaters as they are difficult to control and produce water as a by-product of the combustion. Cacti need a dry atmosphere during their dormant period to prevent marking or even worse rot!
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