Many people get cacti because of their reputation for resisting everything and being very grateful, because they respond well to even minimal care. However, getting them to flower is not so easyor at least it doesn’t seem like an easy mission when you don’t know how to take good care of a cactus. In fact, it can be quite a challenge even for the most dedicated fans.

And, although cacti are fascinating, resistant and low-maintenance plants, not everything works and find the key so that they can flourish It’s basic. And what is the key?

It will be difficult for your cacti to flower if you do not focus on understanding the specific needs of each species and adapt their care according to the environment. Only in this way will they be able to mature on time in good conditions and offer their spectacular flowers as soon as possible.

Choose cacti that bloom younger

A great cactus expert like Jonathan Citadino (@elhuertocitadino on Instagram) explains very graphically that «flowers are like a beard on men, it only appears when it has matured.»

It means that There is no trick that can make an immature cactus throw flowers

Therefore, before buying, you must know What are the varieties of flowering cacti that mature in a few years. Some of the most notable are the MammillariatheGymnocalyciumthe Astrophytum and the Notocactusreveals Citadino.

Instead, the Ferocactus and the Echinopsis They are plants that take up to 15 years to offer their first flowering. Additionally, many flower only under optimal conditions of light, temperature and rest.

Light: the essential factor for cacti to flower

Regardless of the species, they all share certain basic requirements to flourish: light, substrate, water, temperature and adequate nutrients.

Cacti are lovers of sunlight. Most need between 4 and 6 hours of direct sun a day to develop and flourish.

Place them near a bright window or, if possible, take them outside during spring and summer. However, Be careful with the intense midday sun, especially in very hot climates, since some species can suffer burns.

If your cactus is indoors and you notice that elongates or loses its compact shapeprobably lacks light.

Suitable substrate and pot for cacti

The ideal substrate for cacti should be very draining. You can buy specific mixtures for cacti or prepare it yourself by mixing one part blonde peat, one part coarse sand, and one part perlite or ground charcoal.

iStock Photo.Zakharova_Natalia

He excess humidity It is the number one enemy of cacti, since it can rot their roots. Therefore, the pot must have drainage holes. Clay or ceramic ones are preferable, as they allow excess water to evaporate. Avoid placing dishes under the pot, or remove excess water after watering.

• In spring and summer, Water every 7-10 days, only when the substrate is completely dry.
• In autumn and winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, as the plant goes dormant.

Use water at room temperature and water directly on the substrateavoiding wetting the body of the cactus to prevent the appearance of fungi.

Temperature and winter rest

The natural cycle of cacti includes a rest period in autumn and winter. During these months, they need cool temperatures (between 8 and 15 ºC) and very little irrigation.

Respecting this rest is crucial to stimulate flowering in spring. If you have the cacti indoors, in autumn and winter place them in a cool, bright room, away from sources of artificial heat.

Fertilizer: the push to flourish

Although cacti grow in poor soil, they need sufficient nutrients to flourish. Apply a specific fertilizer for cacti or a balanced one diluted at 50%, once a month from early spring to late summer.

It is essential that the fertilizer be rich in potassium, since this mineral is directly related to flowering. Suspend fertilization in autumn and winter.

Tips depending on the type of cactus

• globular cacti (Mammillaria, Gymnocalycium, Echinopsis): They prefer a lot of sun and a marked winter rest. They usually bloom in spring or summer, with small but abundant flowers.
• Columnar cacti (Cereus, Trichocereus): They need deep pots and plenty of space to grow. Its flowers usually open at night.
• Epiphytic cacti (Epiphyllum, Rhipsalis): They live in tropical jungles, so they require less direct sun and more environmental humidity. Use a more organic substrate and water a little more in summer.
• Night Blooming Cactus (Selenicereus, Hylocereus): Its spectacular flowers open only at night and last a few hours. They need heat, light and a well-defined winter rest.

Common problems and solutions

• The cactus does not bloom: Check if it receives enough light, if you respect the winter rest and if the substrate is adequate. Make sure you pay at the correct time.
• The roots rot: Reduce irrigation and improve drainage. Remove affected parts and transplant if necessary.
• Pests attack: Monitor the appearance of mealybug, mites or fungi. Manually remove or apply specific products.

To get cacti to flower, patience and observation are your best alliess. If you meet the needs of your cactus, it will reward you with spectacular flowers and fill your home with color and beauty.

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