Growing cactus in pots has its advantages, you will always have a decorative element for the home that provides a touch of nature and special subtlety . In fact, it has also become a very cute and simple gift idea with which you can make those you love the most happy.
Benefits of potted cacti
Cacti have various connotations, but they have always been recognized as a source of energy. Some theories based on Feng shui point out that these are a symbol of balance and protection for those who live in the house.
However, some currents indicate that because the thorns break the energy flow it is better to put them on the patio, terrace or windows. In this way, according to practitioners , bad energies that want to enter the home are removed. But in addition to this vision, it should be noted that potted cacti help purify the air.
Learn how to grow your cacti in pots
If you want to learn how to grow cactus in pots, we tell you about two ways to do it. You will realize that this is an easy and simple process, but that it requires a lot of attention to avoid making mistakes. If you follow the instructions and put a lot of love into it, you will undoubtedly be able to grow your own cacti and make them last a long time in your home.
You grow cacti from seed
The first of the methods for growing cacti in pots are seeds. This is a process that can take months, up to a whole year , for them to germinate. One of the tips so that this process takes as little time as possible, but with good results, lies in the use of a good substrate and a good fertilizer, hopefully organic.
What you will need to do is get a pot and place a good amount of substrate, already mixed with fertilizer. Then, place your seeds in the bottom and cover them with another good amount of soil . Cacti do not need constant watering, but at this stage it requires more attention, check the substrate and add a good amount of water every 15 or 20 days. This sowing is recommended to be done in spring.
By cuttings
If you already have an adult cactus with good cuttings or “children”, cut some and let them dry at room temperature , without direct sunlight. You can water it every week, but in moderation, so you will avoid “flooding” and damaging them. In a pot you can put the soil and the fertilizer, and proceed to sow the cutting that must already have some incipient roots.
Choose a pot in which you can water the soil in a bedding style so that the roots of the cuttings have enough space. Well, after about four weeks, they will have a solid enough root to be transplanted to the pot in which they can germinate completely.
Caring for cacti in pots
All plants need special care to achieve good development . Some need more than others, but all require basic care. In the case of cacti, good planting, lighting and irrigation practices are needed.
illumination
In order to know how much light or lighting our cacti should receive, we must first distinguish what kind of cacti we have , since not all of them require the same amount of light.
For example, those cacti that have a large number of thorns require direct sunlight . In contrast, cacti that have few or very small spines require spaces with more shade and where a good amount of air can enter them.
Watering the cacti in pots
As we know, watering is one of the most important things for a plant to survive. Although cacti do not need it very often, if you want to have a healthy cactus you must take care of the amount of water and the periodicity with which you water.
The irrigation is related to the seasons, because they help us understand the needs of the plant. In spring, cacti can be watered every 8 days and in fall every 10 to 12 days. When the winter begins and the low temperatures arrive, it is recommended to water every 20 to 40 days.
Remember that it is important to do a good watering every time, as the water must reach the bottom of the pot .
Fertilization
If we want our cactus to reflect more strongly all the care we give it and to maintain it for a long time, we must think about the fertilization of the earth . Some substrates that are bought in specialized stores are very complete, but others not so much. Therefore, at the time of sowing it is better to make sure that the soil is enriched.
The soil to grow cacti, for example, must have a good amount of phosphorus and potassium , minerals that help resist drought or lack of water. Consult the place of purchase for some organic options to complement the nutrition of your plants.
read also this article from 4 simple technique about Outdoor gardening ideas : Top 100+ ideas