6 lies they made you believe about cacti and succulents

The Cactaceae family, which includes cactus and succulentsIt occupies a special place in gardening. These species, which They have the peculiarity of having tissues in their leaves or branches that can accumulate waterThey conquer gardeners, nature lovers and decorators for their unique beauty, their resistance and their fascinating adaptation to extreme conditions.

A series of myth and misunderstandings that distort the bases of their care and cultivation: from popular beliefs that affirm that cactus do not require water to misconceptions about the ease of maintaining a juicy healthy, it is often assumed that these plants are indestructible.

Better understanding their specific needs and demystifying misconceptions can help us better grow these resilient and fascinating plants.

One of the myth most frequently maintains that cactus They can survive with little or no water. Although the cactus They are adapted to arid environments, requiring moderate irrigation.

They should be watered deeply during the warmer months, from September to the end of March, allowing the water to reach the deepest roots and drain through the bottom of the pot.

However, it is crucial not to water them too frequently, as too much water can lead to root rot. That is why it is recommended to have them protected from rain to be able to control irrigation. The trick is to find the balance according to the seasons and climate.

The care of the succulents It is not as simple as it seems. Although they are more resistant than other plants, they require specific humidity and light conditions to avoid diseases or malformations.

Excessive watering, inadequate lighting or lack of air circulation can compromise its health.. In addition, each species has its own needs, so it is essential to know well the characteristics of the plant being grown.

Diseases caused by fungi are frequently related to excessive watering or the combination of cold and humidity in the environment. Neck and root rot occurs from excess moisture.

Although the cactus They are known for their adaptability, this does not mean that they can thrive in any type of substrate.

They need well-drained soil to avoid waterlogging.which can result in root rot. A suitable substrate for cactus It should be sandy or have perlite or pumice to ensure water drains quickly.

The standard cactus substrate should contain two parts black soil, three quarters coarse sand and half part vermiculite.

Although the succulents They are resistant plants, excessive growth must be controlled. Over time, the pot containing them may become too small for their roots. Transplanting them every one or two years is essential so that they continue to grow healthily.

Transplanting helps renew the substrate, allowing the plant to receive the nutrients it needs.

It is advisable to transplant the succulents after purchase, to ensure correct drainage of the pot and the specific substrate for succulents.

Like other plants, some cactus They require occasional pruning to maintain their shape or stimulate growth.

Although the cactus do not need regular pruning like traditional garden plants, it is important to remove dead or damaged shoots and ensure that the cactus It is not overloaded with old branches or thorns that could hinder its development.

It is a myth that cactus they grow very slowly. Although it is true that some species may have a moderate growth rate, many varieties, such as cereo or the TrichocereusThey can grow surprisingly fast if provided with optimal conditions.

Furthermore, some species reach impressive sizes in a few years, especially when grown in their natural habitat or in suitable greenhouses.

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