Lectus

Lectus Care

Cactaceae

What is the plant

All cactus plants are members of the Cactaceae family, and there are thousands of species of cactus. There are two large groups of cacti grown as houseplants; both are popular and familiar, and both can thrive indoors with relatively little maintenance.The desert cacti are the more "traditional" cacti, usually covered with spines or hair and often growing in paddles, balls, or obelisks. Forest cacti grow in wooded areas, ranging from temperate forests to subtropical and tropical regions. The most well-known forest cacti may be the Christmas cactus. Both desert and forest cacti boast beautiful blooms, but they have very different growing habits.

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Humidity

Dry

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

min 10°C

Hardiness zone

9 - 11

Difficulty

Easy

How to Care for the Plant

Water
In the spring and summer, when your desert cactus is actively growing and blooming or both, water whenever the compost begins to dry. During these waterings, make sure the plant is thoroughly watered. During the winter rest period, nearly cease watering. Only water if the plant begins to shrivel. The most common mistake with desert cacti is overwatering in the winter, which will cause rot either at the base of the plant or the tips of the growing areas. If the rot is advanced, it might be necessary to start new plants from cuttings or discard the whole plant.
Fertilizer
For desert cactus, use a cacti fertilizer during the growing season. Some growers have poor results with standard fertilizers, so it's probably worth it to seek out a specialized cacti fertilizer.For forest cactus, fertilize during the growing season with a standard fertilizer. Reduce fertilizer during the growing season.
Sunlight
Strong light is essential for healthy desert cacti, especially in the winter. Some species may scorch in direct summer sun if they haven't been hardened off first.Forest cacti like bright, but not direct, sunlight. Move them outside during the summer.

Disease diagnosis

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Soil
Pot desert cactus into a fast-draining cacti mix. If one is not available, amend the regular potting soil with inorganic agents like perlite to increase drainage and aeration. Cacti are slow-growing plants and will rarely need repotting. Also, remember that many species of cacti will bloom better when they are slightly underpotted.For forest cactus, use a regular potting mix. Repot at the beginning of the growing season.
Temperature
During the active growth period, desert cacti prefer hot, dry temperatures, ranging from 70 F to more than 80 F. In the winter, the plants prefer a cooler period, down to 55 F. In their desert habitats, many cacti are accustomed to very chilly nights. You must protect them from very cold winter drafts.Forest cacti are somewhat less picky about temperature; during the growing season, they have a wide range, from 55 F to 70 F. During the rest period, a colder spell of 50 F is essential.
Popularity
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