In the kingdom of plants, cactus has won the favor of many plant lovers with its unique form, drought-resistant characteristics and rich ornamental value. However, the maintenance of cactus is not easy, especially the crucial link of watering, which often confuses many novice growers. Watering too much or too little can adversely affect the growth of cactus. So, how often should you water your cactus plants? This article will be combined with the growth habits of cactus, seasonal changes, basin soil conditions and other factors to answer this question in detail.
1. The Growth Habits And Watering Needs Of Cactus
Cactus, as a succulent plant, is native to arid desert areas and therefore has a strong natural ability to tolerate drought. Their fleshy stems are able to store large amounts of water to cope with prolonged dry conditions. At the same time, the cactus root system is not developed, and the water demand is relatively low. This makes the cactus have special requirements when it comes to watering: both to ensure water supply and to avoid root rot caused by overwatering.
2. The Factors Affecting The Frequency Of Cactus Watering
Seasons change
Season is one of the key factors affecting the frequency of cactus watering. In the growing season (late spring to early autumn), with the increase in temperature and the enhancement of light, the growth rate of cactus is accelerated, and the demand for water is correspondingly increased. At this time, the watering frequency should be appropriately increased to meet the growth needs of cactus. However, during the dormancy season (late fall to early spring), the growth rate of cactus slows down or even stops growing, and the water requirement is greatly reduced. At this time, watering frequency should be greatly reduced to avoid root rot caused by excessive water.
Basin soil condition
The permeability and water retention of the basin soil have important effects on the watering frequency of cactus. Good permeable basin soil is conducive to respiration and growth of cactus roots, and can also reduce the retention time of water and reduce the risk of root rot. Therefore, when choosing basin soil, it should be preferred to choose sandy loam with good permeability or soil with rotten leaves mixed with sand. In addition, the moisture of the basin soil is also an important basis for judging the timing of watering. Before watering, you can judge the moisture of the soil by observing the color of the soil, touching the texture of the soil, or using a soil hygrometer.
Types and sizes of cactus
Different species of cactus have different water requirements. Some water-loving varieties of cactus (such as pome cactus) may require more frequent watering, while some more drought-tolerant varieties (such as Golden Hunk) have lower water requirements. In addition, the size of the cactus also affects how often it is watered. Larger cactus can store more water and therefore water less frequently; Smaller cacti require more frequent watering to maintain their growth.
3. Cactus Watering Methods And Precautions
Watering cycle
During the growing season, cactus are usually watered every two to four weeks, depending on weather conditions, indoor temperature, and soil humidity. In sunny, dry weather, watering frequency should be appropriately increased; In rainy, humid weather, you should reduce the number of watering. In the dormant season, the frequency of watering cactus should be greatly reduced, usually once a month can be watered. It should be noted that the watering cycle here is for reference only, and the actual watering should be judged according to the growth of the cactus and the humidity of the basin soil.
Watering method
When watering, make sure that the water penetrates evenly into the cactus root system. Water the cactus slowly along the side of the pot, using a watering can or a fine-spout kettle, to avoid wetting the cactus directly on its stems or leaves. At the same time, pay attention to control the amount of watering, to avoid the basin soil too wet or water. After watering, you can gently pat the wall of the basin or tilt the pot to expel excess water.
Precautions
1. Avoid watering during high temperatures in the middle of the day, so that the water evaporates too quickly and causes cactus burns.
2. After watering, avoid placing the cactus in the sun immediately to avoid water evaporation too fast and cause dehydration of the plant.
3. Before watering, the leaves or stems of the cactus should be checked for damage or rot, and should be treated in time if found.
4. For newly planted cactus, watering times should be reduced appropriately during the serving period to avoid root rot.
4. Watering Strategies Under Special Circumstances
Rainy season and dry season
In the rainy season, due to the high humidity of the air, the water demand of cactus is reduced. At this time, the number of watering should be reduced, and ventilation should be strengthened to reduce the humidity of the basin soil. In the dry season, due to the dry air and large evaporation, the water demand of cactus increases. At this time, the number of watering should be increased appropriately, and pay attention to the humidity of the basin soil.
Water after transplanting and changing POTS
After transplanting or changing POTS, the root system of the cactus may be damaged, resulting in decreased water absorption. At this time, should be appropriate to reduce the number of watering, and avoid the pot soil too wet so as not to cause root rot. In the first few days after transplanting or changing the pot, the cactus can be supplemented with water by spraying or dipping the pot. After the root system gradually recovers, water it according to the normal watering cycle.
Conclusion
As a unique ornamental plant, cactus needs to pay attention to many details in its maintenance process. Especially in terms of watering, it is necessary to comprehensively judge according to seasonal changes, basin soil conditions, and the type and size of cactus. Only by mastering the correct watering methods and skills can we make cactus grow healthily and vigorously and show its unique charm. I hope this article can provide you with useful information and help, so that you can be more comfortable in the process of caring for cactus.
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