Question 1

What nutrients do Trichocereus cacti need?

Accepted Answer

Nitrogen (n), Phosphorus (p) and potassium (k) as well as trace elements such as iron , magnesium and zinc.

What type of fertiliser ?

One specific for cacti and with a slow release npk ratio of 10:10:10 or 14:14:14

How often should you fertilise?

Once a month during growing season and every other month during dormancy. Do not over fertilise.

How much fertiliser should I use?

That depends on the size of the pant and the strength of the fertiliser. Always start with a small amount of fertiliser and increase its strength gradually over time.

Can I use organic fertilisers ?

Yes! Compost (make sure it is well broken down and doesn’t contain high level of nitrogen) , worm castings ,

Should I water my cactus before fertilising ?

Yes that way the roots will absorb the nutrients properly

Question 2

Cacti pests and diseases

Accepted Answer

What are the most common pests that affect cacti in the UK? Cacti in the UK can be affected by a range of pests, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.

How can I prevent pests from affecting my cacti? Preventative measures include regularly inspecting the plant for pests, keeping the plant in good health, and avoiding over-fertilizing.

How can I tell if my cactus has pests? Signs of a pest infestation can include webbing, white cotton-like clusters, or small insects on the plant.

What should I do if I suspect my cactus has pests? If you suspect your cactus has pests, isolate it from your other plants and consult a professional or experienced cactus grower for advice on treatment. There is also a wealth of information available online with forums and pages you can join to support you.

Can cacti be treated for pests? Yes, depending on the type of pest, cacti can be treated with a variety of methods including insecticidal soaps, oils, or pesticides. The more natural the solution the better for the enviroment.

Can cacti be reinfested after treatment? Yes, it is possible for a cactus to be reinfested after treatment. It is important to maintain good plant care practices and monitor the plant regularly for signs of pests.

What are mealybugs? Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that can affect cacti. They typically appear as white, cotton-like clusters on the plant. I have given them the affectionate name of fluffyferkers.

How can I treat mealybugs on my cactus? Mealybugs can be treated with insecticidal soaps or oils. It is important to thoroughly coat the affected areas of the plant with the treatment.

What are spider mites? Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that can cause discoloration and webbing on cacti. How can I treat spider mites on my cactus? Spider mites can be treated with insecticidal soaps or oils. It is important to thoroughly coat the affected areas of the plant with the treatment.

What are scale insects? Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that can appear as brown or black bumps on the cactus. How can I treat scale insects on my cactus? Scale insects can be treated with insecticidal soaps or oils. It is important to thoroughly coat the affected areas of the plant with the treatment.

What are the most common diseases that affect cacti in the UK? Cacti in the UK can be affected by a range of diseases, including fungal infections, bacterial infections, and viral diseases.

How can I prevent diseases from affecting my cacti? Preventative measures include proper watering, well-draining soil, avoiding over-fertilizing, and keeping the cactus in an area with good air circulation.

How can I tell if my cactus is sick? Signs of a sick cactus can include discolouration, soft or mushy spots, spots or lesions on the skin, and wilting or drooping. If you suspect your cactus is sick, isolate it from your other plants and consult a professional or experienced cactus grower for advice on treatment or also trawl the internet.

Can cacti be treated for diseases? Yes, depending on the type of disease, cacti can be treated with a variety of methods including fungicides, bactericides, and antivirals. Cacti can be reinfected after treatment? Unfortunately  Yes, it is possible for a cactus to be reinfected it’s important to maintain good plant care practices and keep the cactus in optimal conditions to prevent reinfection.

What is cactus rot? Cactus rot is a fungal infection that can affect cacti, causing soft or mushy spots and eventually leading to the death of the plant. Cactus rot is caused by a fungus that thrives in moist conditions, such as overwatering or high humidity. Cactus rot can be treated with antifungal agents, but prevention is the best course of action. Avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining.

What is cactus scab? Cactus scab is a bacterial infection that can cause rough patches or lesions on the skin of the cactus.  Cactus scab is caused by a bacterium that can enter the plant through wounds or cracks in the skin. Cactus scab can be treated with bactericides, but prevention is the best course of action. Keep the cactus healthy and avoid damaging the skin.

Question 3

What nutrients do Lophophora cacti need?

Accepted Answer

The most important nutrients for Lophophora are phosphorus and potassium, as they are needed for flower and fruit development. Additionally, cacti like Lophophora require low levels of nitrogen.

How often should I fertilize my Lophophora?

It is generally recommended to fertilize Lophophora with a specialized cactus fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). However, it's important not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the plant's roots.

What type of fertilizer should I use for Lophophora?

You should use a specialized cactus fertilizer, which typically contains a balanced blend of nutrients and micronutrients, including magnesium, calcium, and iron.

Can I use regular fertilizer on my Lophophora?

It is not recommended to use regular fertilizer on Lophophora, as it may contain too much nitrogen, which can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become weak.

What other nutrients do Lophophora need?

Lophophora may benefit from occasional supplementation with micronutrients such as zinc, manganese, and copper. However, it's important to be careful not to overdo it, as excessive amounts of micronutrients can be toxic to the plant.

How can I tell if my Lophophora is getting enough nutrients?

Signs that your Lophophora may not be getting enough nutrients include slow growth, small or deformed flowers or fruits, and yellowing or stunted growth. If you notice these signs, it may be time to fertilize your plant or adjust its care.

FAQ

What nutrients do Trichocereus cacti need?

Cacti pests and diseases

What nutrients do Lophophora cacti need?