Cactus
Cactaceae

Cactus Plant

Cacti (Opuntia spp.) prefer well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Provide good airflow and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Different cactus species may have specific care requirements.


Picture illustrating Cactus plant

Habit

Succulent

Height

30-200cm

Growth

Slow

Soil

Sandy, well-drained

Shade

Full Sun

Moisture

Dry

Edible

No

Medicinal

No

Origin

Americas

Climatic Condition

Arid, desert

Temperature (°)

20-40°C

Humidity (%)

10-40%

Potting media

Cactus mix

Fertilizers

Slow-release NPK

Watering

Low

Plant Weight 

500g-5kg

Flowering Time

Varies

Soil Ph level

5.0-6.5

Water Ph level

6.0-7.5

Soil EC

Low

Yield Per Plant 

 

NPK ratio 

5:10:10

life Span

Perennial

Health Benefits

Drought-tolerant, medicinal uses

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

50% sand, 30% perlite, 20% compost


Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

Fertilize every 4 weeks with a diluted cactus fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

Charcole rot

Roots emits bad odour and plant will die.

Neem oil , remove the rotten roots .

Spray Metaxyl.

                  HEALTH BENEFITS

Many edible cacti (like Opuntia) are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and help regulate blood sugar.

What Is A Cactus ?

The Cactaceae family includes many species of flowering plants with fleshy (water-storing) stems. Cacti are distinguished from all other plants by the presence of structures called areoles. Flowers, new branches, and spines arise from the pedicels.


What Are The Different Types Of Cactus ?


1. Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii)

 The barrel cactus is native to Mexico and has a spherical shape with prominent ridges and spines.

2. Fishhook cactus (Mammillaria spp.)

Found throughout the Americas, the fishhook cactus has a small, rounded spherical shape covered with small spines that curve inward like a fishhook.

3. Saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea)

 Native to the Sonoran Desert of Arizona, California, and Mexico, the saguaro cactus grows up to 40 feet tall and has branched arms and a tree-like appearance.


How to Care Cactus ? 

 

1. Location 

Cacti love sunlight and thrive even in direct sunlight. Place them in the warmest, sunniest corners of your home.

2. Sunshine 

Cacti and succulents grow in bright, indirect sunlight. Whether you grow it indoors or outdoors, give it the right amount of light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage these plants. Proper lighting ensures health and vigorous growth

3. Soil 

Common materials for cactus soil include coarse sand, perlite, coconut, pumice, crushed granite, gravel, chicken semolina, and regular garden soil. 3. Mix the soil well. Depending on the specific plant, different soil mix options may be considered.

4. Hydration 

Cactus has natural moisturizing properties that help your skin retain moisture, stay hydrated, and stay fresh and elastic even in harsh environments. Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant known for protecting skin moisture, further enhances hydration.


5. Nourishment 

A cactus-specific or succulent fertilizer with an N-P-K (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) ratio of about 5-10-10 or 2-7-7 is suitable. This promotes healthy root development and prevents excessive leaf growth, which the cactus does not need.

6. Issues 

Cacti grow best in dry, well-drained soil. Too much moisture can cause root rot, which can cause the plant to rot or die. Root rot is a common problem for novice gardeners, Worley said. If your cactus is mushy, be careful not to overwater it.

What are the Benefits of Cactus ? 

Cancer Prevention , Lowering Cholesterol , Strengthening Immunity , Cactus acts as an Antioxidant , Hangover Relief , Weight Loss , Cactus Plants for Diabetes Treatment, Purifies the air , Reduce Inflammation , Promote Digestive Health , Reduce Stress , Support Heart Health . 


FAQs About Growing Cactus 


1. Why do cacti wither ?

If you water your cactus too much, the soil will be soggy and the roots will be waterlogged. Eventually, both the roots and the cactus will die. Another possible cause of cactus plants dying is too much sunlight. Some cacti require a lot of sunlight, while others require very little.

2. What is the problem with cacti ?

The most common problems when growing cacti are caused by: Overwatering or poor drainage , Underwater , Lack of light , Too bright , Humidity is high , Cold and humid environment in winter , Sap-sucking pest.

3. What influences the growth of cacti ?

Correct watering is the most important factor in growing cacti successfully. The soil must be well-drained. During the growing season from March to September, cacti grow rapidly. Water like any other houseplant that likes to dry out a little between waterings . 

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