Basics.
- Water: Water your Trichocereus cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Overwatering can be detrimental to the health of the cactus.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize the cactus once a month during the growing season with a balanced cactus fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
- Temperature: Trichocereus cacti prefer warm temperatures and can tolerate temperatures between 50-90°F. However, they can also survive short periods of freezing temperatures. Protect them from frost and cold drafts, specially tips.
- Humidity: Trichocereus cacti can tolerate low humidity, but it’s best to keep them in a location with a humidity level of around 40-50%.
- Pruning: Prune your Trichocereus cactus to remove dead or diseased stems. Use a sharp, sterile knife and make clean cuts to prevent the spread of disease.
- Pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common cactus pests like spider mites and mealybugs, and treat them with an insecticidal soap or soluble sulphur sprays. If your Trichocereus cactus develops a disease, remove the affected part and treat it with a fungicide, like powdered soluble sulphur.
- Propagation: Trichocereus cacti can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer. Allow the cuttings to dry out for a few days in a well ventilated area.
- Soil use well-draining soil that has a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Cacti soil mix or a blend of potting soil, sand, perlite and/or coco coir work well. Ensure the soil doesn’t become waterlogged, which can lead to root rot.
- Repotting: Trichocereus cacti should be repotted every 2-3 years. Use a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, and ensure it has good drainage. Water sparingly for the first few weeks after repotting to allow the roots to establish.
- Light: Trichocereus cacti prefer bright but indirect sunlight, so place them in a location that receives morning sun or filtered light throughout the day.
From seed.
Here is a guide for growing trichocereus cactus from seed:
- Seed selection: Choose healthy, viable seeds from a reputable source. Trichocereus seeds can be purchased online or collected from mature plants.
- Soil: Trichocereus cactus prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand works well. Avoid using heavy garden soil.
- Container: Use a small container with drainage holes. A plastic seedling tray or a small terracotta pot works well.
- Sowing seeds: Sow the seeds on top of the soil and press them lightly into the soil. Do not bury the seeds too deep. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a clear plastic lid to create a humid environment.
- Germination: Place the container in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not soaking wet. The seeds should germinate within 1-3 weeks.
- Watering: Once the seeds have germinated and are at least 5mm tall, remove the plastic wrap and water the seedlings when the soil is dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater the seedlings, as this can cause root rot.
- Light: As the seedlings grow, gradually introduce them to more direct sunlight. Trichocereus cactus prefer bright, indirect sunlight.
- Transplanting: When the seedlings are around 2 inches , they can be transplanted into larger containers with cactus soil. Be careful when handling the delicate seedlings.
- Fertilization: Trichocereus cactus benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength.
- Care for seedlings: As the seedlings grow, gradually reduce the humidity around them by removing the plastic wrap or bag for longer periods of time each day.
By following these steps, you can successfully grow Trichocereus cactus from seed.
From cuttings.
Growing Trichocereus cacti from cuttings is a relatively simple and rewarding process that can be done by following these steps:
- Choosing a healthy mother plant: The first step in growing Trichocereus cacti from cuttings is to choose a healthy mother plant. Look for a plant that is free from diseases and pests, has a well-developed root system, and is at least 2-3 years old.
- Preparing the cutting: Once you have selected a healthy mother plant, it’s time to prepare the cutting. Use a clean, sharp knife to make a clean cut at a 45-degree angle. Cuttings should be at least 4-6 inches in length and have at least two nodes.
- Letting the cutting callus: After cutting the stem, let the cutting dry and form a callus for a few days. This helps to prevent the cutting from rotting when planted.
- Preparing the soil: Trichocereus cacti prefer well-draining soil, so it’s important to use a mix that includes sand, perlite, and peat moss. Mix these ingredients in equal parts and moisten the soil slightly.
- Planting the cutting: Once the cutting has callused, it’s time to plant it. Make a small hole in the soil and insert the cutting into the soil. The bottom node of the cutting should be just below the soil line.
- Watering the cutting: After planting the cutting, give it a light watering to moisten the soil. Be careful not to overwater, as Trichocereus cacti are prone to rot if the soil is too wet.
- Providing the right environment: Trichocereus cacti prefer warm, sunny conditions. Place the cutting in a warm, sunny location, and avoid exposing it to cold drafts or frost.
- Root development: Over the next few weeks, the cutting will develop roots and begin to grow. Avoid disturbing the cutting during this time, as it may cause the roots to break and the cutting to die.
- Transplanting: After the cutting has rooted and begun to grow, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground. Use a well-draining soil mix and provide plenty of sunlight and water.
Growing Trichocereus from cuttings is a simple process that requires a healthy mother plant, well-draining soil, and the right environmental conditions. With a little patience and care, your cutting will develop roots and grow into a healthy, beautiful plant.
Soil.
Soil Recipe #1: General Purpose Mix
- 50% quality soil
- 20% compost
- 20% perlite
- 10% coarse sand
This mix is a good all-purpose soil for Trichocereus species. It provides good drainage and aeration while still retaining enough moisture for healthy growth.
Soil Recipe #2: Fast-Draining Mix
- 50% coarse sand
- 25% perlite
- 15% pumice
- 10% quality soil
This mix is ideal for Trichocereus that prefer fast-draining soils. It provides excellent drainage and aeration, making it a good choice for plants that are prone to rot.
Soil Recipe #3: Organic Mix
- 40% quality soil
- 30% compost
- 20% coconut fiber
- 10% perlite
This mix is a good choice for Trichocereus species that prefer slightly acidic soils. The addition of coconut fiber provides good moisture retention, while the compost adds nutrients to the soil.
Soil Recipe #4: Semi-Hydroponic Mix
- 50% vermiculite
- 30% perlite
- 20% quality soil
This mix is designed for species that prefer well-draining, moisture-retentive soils. The vermiculite retains moisture while the perlite provides good drainage, creating a semi-hydroponic growing environment.
To prepare these soil mixes, follow these steps:
- Mix the ingredients together in a large container or wheelbarrow.
- Use a shovel or trowel to thoroughly mix the ingredients together.
- Add water as needed to moisten the soil, but be careful not to make it too wet.
- Use the soil to fill your planting containers or to plant your Trichocereus species directly in the ground.
When using these soil mixes, be sure to provide your Trichocereus with the appropriate amount of water and sunlight for healthy growth.
Organic
Trichocereus can benefit from organic fertilizers, which provide nutrients that help promote healthy growth and flowering. Here are some organic tips for your cacti:
- Use compost: Compost is a rich source of nutrients that can be used to fertilize cacti. Mix in a small amount of compost with the soil during planting or add it around the base of the plant.
- Add worm castings: Worm castings are rich in nitrogen and other essential nutrients that can help improve soil fertility. Mix worm castings into the soil or sprinkle them around the base of the cactus.
- Use seaweed fertilizer: Seaweed fertilizer is an excellent source of trace elements and minerals that can help improve plant growth and resilience. Dilute the seaweed fertilizer according to the instructions on the package and apply it to the soil around the base of the cactus.
- Make your own nutrient tea: Tea is a liquid made from compost, worm castings, or other organic matter. To make fertilizer tea, steep a handful of compost or worm castings in a bucket of water for several days, then strain the liquid and use it to water the cactus.
- Use bone meal: Bone meal is an organic fertilizer that is high in phosphorus, which is essential for flower and fruit production. Sprinkle a small amount of bone meal around the base of the cactus or mix it into the soil during planting.
- Apply wood ash: Wood ash is a good source of potassium, which is important for plant growth and stress tolerance. Sprinkle a small amount of wood ash around the base of the cactus, but be careful not to apply too much as it can raise the pH of the soil.
- Use fish emulsion: Fish emulsion is a liquid fertilizer made from fish waste that is high in nitrogen and other nutrients. Dilute the fish emulsion according to the instructions on the package and apply it to the soil around the base of the cactus.
Follow the instructions carefully and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant. With proper nutrients and care, Trichocereus cacti can thrive and produce beautiful flowers.
Pests
Water-soluble sulfur can be used to prevent and treat mite and mealybug pests as well as fungal infections in Trichocereus cacti. Sulfur is a natural element that has been used as a pesticide and fungicide for many years. It works by disrupting the metabolic processes of the pests and fungi, ultimately leading to their death.
Biologically, sulfur works by disrupting the energy-producing process in pests and fungi, specifically by inhibiting their ability to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy source for cells. Sulfur also interferes with the production of enzymes necessary for the growth and development of fungi and pests. As a result, pests and fungi are unable to produce energy, grow, and reproduce, ultimately leading to their death.
To apply sulfur to Trichocereus cacti, you should mix the water-soluble sulfur powder with water according to the package instructions. Once mixed, use a sprayer to apply the solution to the cacti, making sure to cover all surfaces thoroughly. It is important to apply the solution during the cooler parts of the day to avoid any potential damage to the plant. Additionally, it is recommended to repeat the treatment every 7-14 days until complete eradication of the pests and/or fungi.
To prevent fungal infections, it is important to maintain proper growing conditions for the cacti. This includes ensuring proper drainage, avoiding overwatering, and providing adequate airflow. However, if a fungal infection does occur, sulfur can be used as a treatment. To treat fungal infections, mix the water-soluble sulfur powder with water according to the package instructions and spray the solution onto the affected areas. Repeat the treatment every 7-10 days until the infection is completely gone.
It is important to note that sulfur can be harmful to beneficial insects such as bees and ladybugs. Therefore, it should only be used when necessary and in accordance with the package instructions. Additionally, it is recommended to wear protective clothing, including gloves and a mask, when handling sulfur to avoid any potential respiratory or skin irritation.