In contrast to other types of cacti, the columnar cactus is not quite as easy to care for. It is very susceptible to diseases and pests. Only if the location and care are right will it grow to a considerable size. How to care for columnar cacti.
How do I properly care for a columnar cactus?
How do you care for a columnar cactus? Water sparingly and only when the substrate has dried. Fertilize with cactus fertilizer during the growth phase, April to August. In winter keep it cool but bright and water once a month.
How do you water a columnar cactus correctly?
The columnar cactus stores water in its trunks. He doesn't like too much wetness and leads to fungal diseases.
So only water sparingly. Avoid watering the trunk directly and only pour water on the edge of the pot. Watering is always carried out only when the surface of the substrate has dried to a depth of two centimeters.
Use lukewarm, lime-free water for watering.
When should you fertilize a columnar cactus?
The columnar cactus is only fertilized during the growth phase from April to August. A commercially available cactus fertilizer (€6.00 on Amazon) is sufficient. But dose it sparingly.
Can you shorten columnar cacti?
Yes, you can shorten a columnar cactus if it has become too big. The cuttings can be used for propagation.
How to repot the Cereus?
If the pot has become too small, repot the columnar cactus in winter if possible. The new pot shouldn't be much bigger.
What diseases and pests do you need to watch out for?
Columnar cacti are very susceptible to diseases and pests. Rot and fungal infestation occur, especially when it is wet.
Be aware of pests and always treat a pest infestation immediately. Chemical agents have little effect. You often get better results with natural enemies. Common pests include:
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
- Root lice
If you care for the columnar cactus outside in summer, check the soil for larvae of black weevils and other pests.
How do you care for columnar cacti in winter?
Columnar cacti are not hardy and cannot tolerate temperatures below five degrees. In winter you should give it a break and keep it cool but very bright at six to eight degrees. Reduce watering to once a month.
Tip
The columnar cactus always leans in the direction from which the most light falls. Therefore, turn the pot from time to time so that the cactus grows straight up.