![peruvian apple cactus peruvian apple cactus](https://www.starnursery.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/cereus-peruvianus.jpg)
An ideal soil mixture should resemble the desert soils on which the plant naturally grows. Some potting mediums might require you to add sand to increase the drainage capability of the soil. You can also check on the potting medium before deciding to grow the plant indoors. You can check the acidity of the soil by testing it yourself using a good soil pH kit or by collecting a sample of the medium and taking it to the lab for analysis. The species prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH ranging from 5-7 on the scale. The apple cactus plant grows best in, well-draining sandy soils. A regular once-a-week schedule is ideal when watering an apple cactus.
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Leave undisturbed for some time – After water, it’s advisable to allow the water to drain without disturbing the plant.Larger pots are more likely to hold excess water (especially if the plant has a smaller size). The amount of water also depends on the size of the plant and the pot. Sprinkle water sparingly on the surface until the top layer becomes moist. Add adequate amounts of water – The Peruvian apple cactus plant requires minimal water per session, although the watering frequency depends on the season.Moist soil indicates that the plant might have enough water already (and does not require additional water). Dip your finger to about two to three inches under the potting medium to check for any moisture before adding more water. Check the soil – Always check the soil before watering your plant.
PERUVIAN APPLE CACTUS HOW TO
How to properly water your apple cactus plant Experts suggest that adhering to a strict watering schedule (about once a week or more) can help to preserve the plant during its dormant phase. Too much water can negatively affect the plant’s health and cause complications in the future. The plant requires minimal watering during the winter months. RELATED: HOW TO REVIVE OVERWATERED CACTUS Allow the soil to dry out before each watering to prevent overwatering your cactus. It has several adaptations that promote its growth in areas with minimal rainfall, including succulent leaves that store water for extended periods.Ĭonstantly water your plant thoroughly during its active growing phase (which happens during the spring and summer months). The apple cactus plant rarely needs much watering because it is succulent. Here are the plant’s major growing requirements: Water requirements It’s always advisable to have additional space when growing it indoors since it grows pretty fast. The apple cactus plant also requires constant pruning, primarily when grown within a confined space. Several considerations when growing the plant include water requirements, soil, PH, light, etc. It rarely needs watering and prefers dry sandy soils with adequate drainage. Apple cactus growing requirementsĪ Peruvian apple cactus is relatively easy to grow and maintain. (A few indigenous tribes also refer to this succulent as Cadush or Kayush). However, you are more likely to hear its more common names, including the apple cactus, queen of the night, giant club cactus, hedge cactus, and column cactus. The Cereus genus consists of many columnar cacti that grow natively through South America, Brazil, Argentina, and Peru.The scientific name of the Peruvian apple cactus is Cereus repandus. It can also be used in containers with other cacti and succulents, around foundations, and in entrances or raised planters. Use it as a striking accent against tall buildings or large, open walls. Its fruit is large, hairless and contains small, edible, crunchy seeds called pitaya. The species is also distinguished by the red fruit that remains on the plant for a long time. During the warmer months, the plant produces large, white or reddish and slightly fragrant blossoms that bloom at night. The name Cereus is from Greek and Latin, meaning large torch. Spines, sharp edges, conspicuous bumps and knobs can be found along the branches. It also has ribbed and cylindrical-shaped, deep grayish-green, upright branches. The plant forms many offsets that eventually grow as tall as the mother plant. However, the variety ‘Monstrose’ is a slower grower and is smaller in height. It is a moderate grower, reaching heights of ten to twenty feet with a spread of fifteen feet or more. The cactus is admired for its knobby branches, flowers that open at night and red, apple-like fruit.