| Description: |
A large tree in the wild with trunks up to 20 inches (50cm) in diameter, deep ribs with spines in groups of about 15. Flowers are white. |
| Environment: |
Suitable for the home or a greenhouse |
| Growing Ease: |
Requires a little extra care |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in full sunlight coming from the South/West |
| Soil Type: |
Never use ordinary potting compost or garden soil, there are general purpose cactus mixes available. If you want to mix your own take:
2 parts barely fibrous garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite and 1 part fine gravel.
Always use a pot with a hole.
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| Watering: |
Drench the soil and let it become barely moist between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter or dormant season. If you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic and water after sunset with warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed once a year during the spring with a water soluble fertilizer. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to mealy bugs, spider mites and scale. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Propagation: |
Seeds
in the spring.
Plant seeds evenly about in their normal growing medium, pat it down and cover with a fine layer of sand. Saturate the soil and cover with a piece of cardboard, treat with a fungicide when leaves appear and move it to a sunny location.
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| Gardening Tips & Care: |
" Keep cool in the winter and cover the last 1"" (2.5cm) of soil with gravel to avoid stem rot. Be careful not to over-water."
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