- How long is the summer break?
- How do you water Ariocarpus correctly?
- Do you need to fertilize Ariocarpus?
- In which location does Ariocarpus feel comfortable?
- What diseases and pests do you need to watch out for?
- How is the Ariocarpus cared for in winter?
The Ariocarpus is also called wool fruit cactus or star cactus. The care of this species of cactus, which is a protected species, is not very easy and is not necessarily recommended for beginners. The cactus has an atypical dormant period in summer. What do you need to know if you want to properly care for an Ariocarpus?
The Ariocarpus only flowers when it gets its rest period
How long is the summer break?
Unlike most of the indoor plants grown here, the Ariocarpus takes a rest in the summer. It must be strictly observed, otherwise the cactus will not bloom.
The rest period begins in May and ends in August. During this time, the cactus is first watered a little and then not at all and not fertilized.
How do you water Ariocarpus correctly?
The Ariocarpus develops a long taproot that is very vulnerable if given too much water. You must therefore be very careful when watering.
- Always water from below
- water only when the substrate is dry
- Water less often from the beginning of May
- Watering break from July to August
- gradually get used to more moisture again
Place the pot on a saucer. Pour some water in there. It is picked up by the substrate through the attraction hole. Only when the soil is dry, pour new water into the saucer.
Do you need to fertilize Ariocarpus?
From the end of August to the end of April you can provide the Ariocarpus with some liquid fertilizer at four-week intervals. After repotting, do not use fertilizer at all for several months.
In which location does Ariocarpus feel comfortable?
A big problem in caring for Ariocarpus is a convenient location. The cactus needs a lot of light. Between 16 and 19 hours it must be light. In our latitudes, this can only be achieved in a greenhouse or by installing plant lamps.
What diseases and pests do you need to watch out for?
Ariocarpus reacts to waterlogging with rot. The cactus should be checked regularly for pests such as scale insects, spider mites and thrips.
How is the Ariocarpus cared for in winter?
Since the Ariocarpus rests in summer, it can be kept bright but not too warm in winter. Temperatures below 10 degrees should always be avoided.
tips
With proper care and in a suitable location, the Ariocarpus develops white to pink flowers. They bloom from September to January.