Echinocereus is a genus of plants that is directly related to the Cactaceae family. It includes about 60 varieties. The flower habitat is the south of North America.
Cacti belonging to the specified genus have a relatively small growth (about 60 cm), highly branching stems and thorns that fill the flower buds and areola tubes. Thanks to this feature, the name of the plant was supplied with the prefix "Echinus", which is translated from Greek as "hedgehog".
Single flowers, consisting of many petals, are funnel-shaped. When the flowering of a cactus ends, it is covered with juicy fruits. They are edible, while in certain varieties of Echinocereus, the fruits have an incredible taste.
The plant has many subspecies with similar and different features. For example, the shape of their stems can be either spherical or cylindrical. The ribs are not only straight, but also spiral. Sometimes they are difficult to see, and sometimes they are clearly protruding. The size of the flowers also varies from small to huge.
Echinocereus care at home
Echinocereus is very popular among flower growers, because it is completely unpretentious to the conditions of detention. This member of the family is much easier to care for than everyone else.
Location and lighting
The flower needs bright lighting all year round, and it will be better if you provide it with access to direct sunlight. Therefore, the optimal location for him will be a window facing south. In summer, it is highly recommended to move the plant to the balcony or garden.
Temperature
A temperature of 25-30 degrees is the optimal indicator for a cactus in the summer. In winter, the plant goes into a dormant state, so it should be placed in a cooler place, the temperature in which does not exceed 12 degrees.
Among the varieties of Echinocereus, there are representatives that are distinguished by good frost resistance. As an example, we can name 2 subspecies - triglohidiata and sharlach. They are able to survive in extremely low temperatures (20-25 degrees below zero). The flowers freeze completely, resembling a glass figurine. Thawing occurs by spring and growth continues. For this reason, some flower growers keep Echinocereus on a loggia or glassed-in balcony all year round.
However, not every species is resistant to frost. So, lowering the room temperature to 1-2 degrees below zero leads to the death of thornless Echinocereus.
Watering
In spring and summer, watering should be moderate. Watering Echinocereus is again recommended only after the earthen coma has completely dried out. Do not overfill it: waterlogged soil leads to root rot.
When watering, it is necessary to use soft, settled water that has reached room temperature. It will not be superfluous to filter it - experienced florists do just that.
For the winter, watering the flower should be completely stopped. This is especially true for plants standing in a cold room or in the cold.
Air humidity
Do not humidify the air too much. Cactus stems are able to retain water on themselves for a long time, so spraying them is prohibited. Excessive dampness can lead to sad consequences - rotting of the stems and root system.
Soil preparation
A loose earth mixture with a sufficient amount of minerals is suitable for a plant. In the store you can buy ready-made soil for cacti and succulents. However, before planting Echinocereus in it, add a small amount of fine gravel and coarse sand (one quarter of the total volume) there.
Fertilization
While the cactus is growing vigorously, it should be fed about once every 4 weeks. Echinocereus can be fertilized with the same mixtures as orchids, or you can use the usual feeding for cacti and succulents. In the autumn-winter time, fertilizers are prohibited.
Transfer
It is recommended to replant young individuals once a year. A mature cactus is transplanted into a new container as the root system grows (approximately 1 time in 3-4 years). The transplant should be carried out in the spring - this is the most favorable time for her.
Echinocereus breeding methods
For reproduction of Echinocereus, either seeds or baby cuttings are traditionally used.
Pests and diseases
Pests and diseases do not affect this plant. The only thing from which the condition of Echinocereus can worsen is rot. The reasons for its occurrence were mentioned earlier (too humid air or excessively abundant watering).
