- How is Rhipsalis baccifera watered?
- Is fertilizing necessary?
- When is repotting indicated?
- Can you cut Rhipsalis baccifera?
- Does Rhipsalis baccifera need a winter break?
- What diseases and pests can occur?
Rhipsalis baccifera is also known as the rush cactus because of its thin, drooping shoots. Caring for this non-toxic and thornless species of cactus is easy. How to properly care for Rhipsalis baccifera.
Like all Rhipsalis species, the Rhipsalis baccifera is very easy to care for
How is Rhipsalis baccifera watered?
- Water all year round
- Never let the root ball dry out completely
- Avoid waterlogging
- use lime-free water
Rhipsalis baccifera is watered continuously. The root ball must not get too wet, but must never dry out completely.
Since Rhipsalis generally does not tolerate calcareous water, only use rainwater or softened tap water for watering.
Rhipsalis baccifera prefers a slightly higher humidity. You should therefore occasionally spray the cactus with a little decalcified water.
Is fertilizing necessary?
In order for the rush cactus to flower, fertilize it with liquid fertilizer at fortnightly intervals. Stop fertilizing as soon as the first flower buds appear. Fertilize again only after the flowers have faded.
When is repotting indicated?
Rhipsalis baccifera does not need a larger pot that often. Nevertheless, you should take the cactus out of the pot in spring and replace the substrate with fresh soil.
After repotting, you must not fertilize Rhipsalis baccifera for several weeks.
Can you cut Rhipsalis baccifera?
Cutting is not necessary. If the shoots are too long, you can shorten them. Cut them back by a maximum of two-thirds in spring.
The cut shoots can be used for propagation. They have to dry for several days before sticking.
Does Rhipsalis baccifera need a winter break?
Rhipsalis baccifera does not hibernate. You can care for the cactus all year round at room temperature. But you shouldn't put it right next to the heater in winter.
What diseases and pests can occur?
If the root ball is kept too wet, the roots and later the whole cactus will rot. Therefore, do not leave any water in the saucer.
Spider mites are more common, especially when the humidity is low. They can be recognized by the small webs that form on the shoots. You should treat an infestation immediately.
tips
Rhipsalis baccifera is quite easy to flower if you provide different temperatures during the day and night. The flowers appear in early spring and emit a strong, pleasant scent.