Barrel Cactus Care

Water your barrel cactus once per week in summer. The barrel cactus doesn't need much water in winter when it is dormant. Water once between December and February. Adequate water in spring may cause the plant to produce a large yellow flower

Fertilize the barrel cactus once a year in spring when it leaves dormancy and begins growing again. A low nitrogen liquid fertilizer is a good formula for the barrel cactus. The amount of fertilizer will depend on the size of your container and plant. Consult the packaging for guidance on the exact amount.

Soil for barrel cactus is mostly sand with a little topsoil, perlite, and compost. Prepared cactus mixes are suitable for growing barrel cactus. Unglazed pots are best for potted cactus because they allow the evaporation of excess water. Water is a very important component to caring for barrel cactus.

Temperature. The ideal temperature range for a Golden Barrel Cactus is 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit (10-21 degrees Celsius). The Barrel Cactus tolerates a good range of temperature but it certainly will not like frost. Keep it at over 40 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it doesn't get damaged by cold.

Barrel cacti are one of the more dangerous plants in the desert. Their spines can easily puncture human skin. Its has been said that a wound that draws blood could take several months to heal with antibiotics needed for some. It has also been said that liquid in the cactus can be deadly if ingested or even sniffed. Its life span is 50-100 years. This cactus commonly grows 2-4 feet but may grow taller can grow to be 6-10 feet tall. It can reach a diameter of 18 to 30 inches or more. The Fishhook Barrel Cactus is often called the "Compass Barrel " because some of the larger plants lean toward the southwest.

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