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PLANT
OF THE MONTH: JUNE 2008
Gymnocalycium mihanovichii |
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 Coryphantha species |
Although
all cacti are succulents, not all succulents are cacti. A general rule
of thumb is that cacti have spines; succulents do not. Cacti contain
specialized areas on their surfaces called areoles. These areoles produce
the spines, flowers, and sometimes, baby cacti or even leaves on some
species. To help cacti bloom every year, keep them outdoors in warm climates. The minimum temperature for cacti is 61 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius). Avoid northern exposure and spaces where trees provide too much shade for the cacti. During the summer, leave the cacti outdoors where they can receive abundant sunshine and air circulation. If you have a light sensitive cactus that needs less than twelve hours of sunlight, be sure to place these plants in a dark or little used room until they produce flower buds. |
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Like
people, cacti and succulents need nutrition in the form of fertilizing.
Two basic fertilizers that you may use to nourish your cacti are 1) “Water
soluble mineral fertilizers and 2) “slow-release fertilizers.” Picking
the right kind of fertilizer depends on whether you want to fertilize
every month or every three months during the growing season. Both types
of fertilizers are convenient, and you can select either one for your
needs. Fertilizer for cacti and succulents must have a N-P-K Ratio:
N (nitrogen), P (phosphorous), and K (potassium). To ensure your cactus
will flower, fertilize during the growing season, which is generally
between March through October |
. |  Chamaeocereus hybrid |
 Echinopsis species |
 Notocactus Leninghausii |
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