Watering Opuntia microdasys
Proper watering is a very important aspect of Opuntia microdasys care.
Contrary to what many new cactus keepers think, these desert plants do require regular watering, at least during the summer. Just water when the soil has dried out and then allow it to dry out again before giving more water.
Although it’s better to under-water than over-water, both are dangerous to the plant so be sure to keep a close eye on it!
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| source photo: jillflowers.co |
During the winter period, less water is needed and a little bit once a month should be enough to last it until Spring rolls around.
When it’s time to water your Opuntia microdasys, be sure not to give it just a few drops. It needs a good splash so that the soil is thoroughly soaked and water comes out of the drainage holes.
Let the water drain until it stops dribbling out of the pot and then leave the cactus until it has had time to fully dry. During summer, you can add some cactus fertilizer once every other watering.
Light, Temperature and Humidity
A spot near a south-facing, unobstructed window is most likely to meet bunny ears' need for bright, direct sun. Windows with western or eastern exposure run as second and third choices.
While an actively growing bunny ears tolerates indoor summer temperatures as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit, don't expect it to flower unless you also provide winter temperatures between 45 and 55 F. Regardless of the season, it likes humidity in the 10 to 30 percent range. Finally, if none of your windows provides adequate light, place the plant 6 inches to 1 foot below a cool white fluorescent tube for 14 to 16 hours each day.
The Pot and Growing Medium
A good bunny ears growing medium must drain quickly. Use a commercial cactus potting mix, or mix your own with 40 percent sterilized houseplant soil, 40 percent builders sand and 20 percent peat moss. The best container for your cactus is a clay pot just slightly larger and deeper than the plant's root system. It must have drainage holes because a pot without them, or a pot that's too large, could make proper watering impossible.
Soil & Transplanting Opuntia Microdasys
Loam or sandy soils work best for cacti.
One crucial element of the soil is the drainage.
Use a commercial cactus potting mix or make your own with one part potting soil and one part perlite.
Repotting the plant is required infrequently as the plant takes its sweet time to grow and spread.
Every 1 to 2 years, transplant into a clay pot bigger than the previous one.
Opuntia microdasys bunny should have a drainage hole along with room to grow.
Repotting should be done in the summer, post-bloom.
Transplanting in-ground cacti should be done in the same season or when you propagate using cuttings.
Be very careful as the bristles are sharp and a skin irritant.
Place the calloused part upright in moist soil.
If the cutting is too tall to stay upright, lay it flat for a few weeks.
Plant when new roots emerge.
Bunny Ear Cactus Plant Pest or Diseases
The plant is generally free of most pest problems. There might be occasional susceptibility to scale insects and succulent mealybugs.
Consult your local gardening center for a solution or soak a cotton ball in alcohol to wipe the pads.
As for diseases, the plant is not affected by major problems.
However, if your cactus is planted in soils with poor drainage or high moisture soils, they can droop.
