GREENGOLD GARDEN CONCEPTS
CARE AND MAINTENANCE NOTES

CACTI

1. POTTING MIX. A good commercial cacti potting mix, such as AMGROW or DEBCO CACTI MIX. Or you can make up your own mix comprising:

• 1 part good quality sieved potting mix,
• 2 parts coarse sand
• 1 part composted cow manure or mushroom compost
• and a small amount of slow release (outdoor) fertilizer

These mixes will keep your cacti going for about 2 years before repotting will be required.

2. LIGHT. Cacti require direct sunlight for at least part of the day, and need sun to flower. All cacti flower when mature. Some will flower when 2 years old and some take up to 20 years (!) depending on variety. Most will flower in small pots.

3. WATER. Cacti must have water to grow. The general rule for cacti is water only when the soil is dry. Good drainage is absolutely essential and for this reason IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED THAT YOU USE A SAUCER. WATER LEFT IN SAUCERS UNDER CACTI WILL RESULT IN EARLY LOSS OF THE PLANT. Cacti do not require a lot of water.

4. REPOTTING. Loosen the soil in the pot. Take hold of the roots at the base (Be careful of prickles on the roots) and lift the plants out. shake the old soil off the roots, and gently tamp into the new soil. Use leather gloves or newspaper to handle the cacti. Do not overwater your repotted cacti. The best time to repot cacti is Spring. the best time to replant is spring.

5. PESTS. Mealy Bug is a small white bug which is covered with a white waxy floss - like cotton wool. Mealybug can be controlled with a systemic spray such as ROGOR or FOLIMAT. They will need to be sprayed three times at 10 to 14 day intervals. 2 - 3 weeks apart. 6. Good ventilation is essential to minimize chances of fungus and it is important to avoid humid conditions. Cacti are not suitable for terrariums for this reason. and avoid humid situations such as terrariums.