The damage becomes noticeable gradually and at first glance is reminiscent of symptoms of an illness. Although cacti are sun worshipers, they can get sunburned. Learn how to diagnose and treat the dilemma here.

Cacti need to be slowly acclimated to the sun

How to recognize sunburn on cacti

Sunburn on cacti usually occurs in spring when the plants move to the balcony. The damage is recognizable as light, cream-colored spots that appear on the previously green epidermis. In contrast to the symptoms of the disease, the damaged areas do not spread further, but are initially limited to the region that is hit by the sun's rays.

If no countermeasures are taken, the affected cactus will cork and lignify. This not only impairs the decorative appearance, but in the worst case leads to the death of the entire plant.

Immediate action limits the damage - Here's how

If you notice bright spots on your cacti, immediate action is required. The faster and more consistently you take the following measures, the less damage will be done. That is how it goes:

  • Sunburned cacti immediately move to a partially shaded location
  • Spray the entire epidermis with an amino acid preparation such as AMN from Uhlig

With this strategy, the sunburned regions are not healed. After all, you reduce the damage and prevent a life-threatening escalation. The use of amino acid is recommended because it is a protein fertilizer with an immediate effect. The cactus is strengthened and activates its natural healing powers to quickly overcome the debilitation caused by sunburn.

This is an effective way to prevent sunburn

With a simple trick you can prevent your cacti from getting sunburned. First place the plants on the balcony in a partially shaded location for 8 to 10 days. Here you can get used to the sun's rays. In this respect, the epidermis of cacti reacts no differently than human skin.

In addition, we recommend expanding the care program by spraying the cacti with an amino acid agent every 4 weeks from March to September.

tips

Cactus offshoots are particularly sensitive to sunshine. Therefore, always place the seed pots (€16.68) with the cuttings in a partially shaded window seat on the west or east side of the house. Curtains or large plants also soften incoming sun rays.

Category:

Vegetable garden