|
Cacti and succulents are among the most
unique type of indoor plant. Through millions of years of evolution, they
have developed amazing methods of water storage and self protection. This
evolution enables them to survive in some of the most desolate growing
areas on earth.
For indoor plants, cacti and succulents
are the perfect choice. Typical hot, dry indoor conditions are often harmful
to leafy foliage plants, but provide the ideal climate for many kinds
of succulent plants. In addition, these plants are very tolerant of neglect,
requiring little watering or other care throughout the greater part of
the year. The results are often large, colorful blossoms, an added bonus
whenever they appear.
Outdoors, cacti and succulents are a
great addition in the landscape or on a patio during the summer. Although
most cacti plants are not able to protect themselves from frost, a few
will survive even the coldest of winter climates.
No matter what you desire in plants,
cacti and succulents have the diversity and adaptability to suit almost
any lifestyle. A small investment will reward you with enjoyment for many
years to come.
A succulent is generally considered to be any plant which
has the natural ability to store water in its body or roots. There are
over 2500 varieties of cactus. Hundreds of these varieties are available
commercially. True cacti are one type of succulent; they are members of
the plant family Cactaceae. All cacti are native to the Western Hemisphere,
and although many bear spines, this characteristic alone does not make
them cacti. A true cactus is distinguished by the presence of areoles,
small nubbin-like structures which occur over the body of the plant. Cactus
spines, as well as roots and the flowers, always grow from these areoles,
whereas spines on succulents other than cacti grow directly out of the
body of the plant. Their unique adaptation also enables succulent plants
to store water, quickly and in great volume.
The main ways in which cacti and succulents are propagated
are by cuttings, seeds, and offsets. To select the appropriate way to
propagate your plant, observe how it grows. Most barrel types are grown
from seed or offsets. Columnar or pad types are grown mainly from cuttings.
Certain forms are grafted to another in order to grow.
Most seeds are easily germinated and many commercial
varieties are self-fertile. Offsets (pups) can be stripped from the mother
plants and replanted immediately. Cuttings should be left to dry, out
of direct sun light for up to 2 weeks. This drying period allows the cut
area to "heal".
Due to their low humidity requirements
many cacti do better in the dry air of homes with central heat than most
other house plants. They also do very well outside during the summer months
in areas of the country with low humidity and warm night temperatures.
Most cacti have small root systems and
are susceptible to damage from too much moisture. Allow plants to dry
thoroughly between waterings. A good rule of thumb for watering is to
skip one week for every 1 inch of pot size.
Example: 2" pot - water once every
2 weeks, 3" pot - water once every 3 weeks, etc.
Cacti prefer bright light and warmth,
but will tolerate most household conditions. Feed monthly with a balanced
fertilizer during growing season, usually during the summer months. Little
to no feeding during the dormant months, usually during the winter months,
is necessary. |
