Xerophyte

Description

Cumulopuntia sphaericaSN|4198]]SN|4198]] is a xerophytic, summer-growing, species adapted to dry soils that, like many cacti of the Peruvian deserts, present some problems in cultivation. It is in fact somewhat rot prone if kept in a non ventilated place.

Propagation

Seeds, grafting or (usually) cuttings. The seeds can be sown in pots of fine, well-drained sandy soil, any time during the spring when temperatures are warm. The seedlings should not be disturbed until they are well rooted after which they can be planted separately in small pots. Cuttings of healthy shoots can be taken in the spring and summer (let dehydrate the cuttings for a few weeks and the roots will coming quick) Once the callus forms, the cutting may be inserted in a container filled with firmed cactus potting mix topped with a surface layer of coarse grit. They should be placed in the coarse grit only; this prevents the cut end from becoming too wet and allows the roots to penetrate the rich compost underneath. Cuttings will take root in a minimum temperature of 20° C (but better in hot weather).

Fertilization

Feed them once during the growing season with a fertilizer specifically formulated for cactus and succulents (high potash fertilizer with a dilute low nitrogen), including all micro nutrients and trace elements diluted to ½ the strength recommended on the label. They thrive in poor soils and need a limited supplies of fertilizer to avoid the plants developing excess vegetation, which is easily attacked by fungal diseases.

Frost Tolerance

This species requires higher temperatures in summer and winter than many of its relatives, as it grows in the nature together with Melocactus peruvianusSN|12607]]SN|12607]], too. The plant does not tolerate snow, but can tolerate occasional freezing spells of about - 5° C (the typical morning frost of central Chile). For safe cultivation it needs to be kept in a cool place (min. temperature around 5° C) during winter rest. This is important for the flowers as well as for their health. Without this cool winter period they normally won't get many buds.

Growing Rate

Slow-growing.

Red Spiders

All, especially the young, are susceptible to red spider mites. Red spiders may be effectively rubbed up by misting the plants from above.

Repotting

Repotting will increase the number and size of stems, and will increase the number of flowers produced. Repot yearly until the plant reaches about 5 cm in diameter, then every two or three years will suffice. Repotting is best done at the end of winter, but it can also be done at other times. Do not water for a couple of weeks after repotting, to reduce the risk of root rot via broken roots. It needs deeper pots to accommodate the big tap root. Pot bound, starved plants will rapidly look tatty and won’t flower well.

Mealy Bugs

Mealy bugs occasionally develop aerial with disfiguring results, but the worst types develop underground on the roots and are invisible except by their effects.

Watering

Water and feed in the vegetation period from April until to mid of September, keep dry and cool in winter, they have to be stimulated to bloom by dryness and you may give them water first when the plants start to produce the new buds. Water it less than average if in bigger pots.

Sun Exposure

It needs an absolutely airy and sunny place this brings very healthy plants with a good spination and flowers. .

Soil and Substrate

It requires a very fast draining drying mineral, sandy-gritty cactus composts. Provide a very good drainage.

Pests and Diseases

These cacti may be attractive to a variety of insects, but plants in good condition should be nearly pest-free, particularly if they are grown in a mineral potting-mix, with good exposure and ventilation. Nonetheless, there are several pests to watch for.

These insects are rarely a problem.

Special Requirements

It is suited for airy exposures. Provide very good ventilation. Nearly all problems occur as a result of overwatering and poor ventilation, especially when weather conditions are dull and cool or very humid. They must have very dry atmosphere.