ThePrickly Pear Cactus(Opuntia humifusa ) , also known as the Eastern prickly pear or Devil ’s tongue , brings the allure of desert plants to a variety of clime , especially those cooler than one might expect for a cactus . While smaller than its desert cousinOpuntia genus Ficus - indica , which can reach heights of over 15 feet , the splenetic Pyrus communis has its own magic spell with its petite height , vibrant flower , and resiliency .
This guidebook will provide everything you need to make out about grow , maintain , and delight thePrickly Pear Cactusto ensure it thrives in your garden .
Overview of the Prickly Pear Cactus
Prickly Pear Cactus Care Essentials
Light Requirements
ThePrickly Pear Cactusthrives infull sunlightand necessitate at least eight hour of lineal Dominicus per day for optimal growth . However , it can support some partial nicety in extremely hot desert climates . Adequate visible light will not only help the cactus produce taller and fuller but will also promote a higher bloom yield do mid - bound and throughout summertime .
Soil Needs
A well - draining , sandy , or gravelly soil mixture is critical for the Prickly Pear . This cactus is not particular about filth pH and can do by a ambit from achromatic to acidic ( 6.0 to 7.5 ) . If you ’re working with heavier soil like clay , amend it with gumption to improve drain , as stagnant water can quickly lead to root rot .
Watering Schedule
Known for itsextreme drouth tolerance , the Prickly Pear Cactus only requires minimum watering . In most temperate realm , natural rainfall will be sufficient , particularly for mature plants . If extra water is needed , contrive to irrigate it every two to four weeks , taking care not to exaggerate it . During the wintertime , the cactus will naturally “ puncture ” or shrink as part of its dormancy process — this is completely normal and command no additional H2O .
Temperature and Humidity Preferences
ThePrickly Pear Cactusthrives in lovesome , dry atmospheric condition but is resilient enough to withstand temperature as low as 14 ° atomic number 9 . While it can endure some humidity , excess wet or misting can be prejudicious . Optimal maturation and anthesis come about when thecactusis kept in a systematically ardent and ironic surroundings .
Fertilization
outside works broadly wo n’t need any plant food . However , if grow the cactus indoors or in a container , occasional eating may benefit the flora . Use a balanced fertilizer ( 5 - 10 - 10 ) monthly during the growing season if you notice a paler fleeceable colour or lack of blooms .
Types of Prickly Pear Cactus
Beyond the Eastern prickly pear , several other diversity extend unique characteristics :
Prickly Pear Cactus Maintenance
Pruning
Pruning is optional with thePrickly Pear Cactus . If a special build or size is desired , use tongs or a gloved hand to hold a launchpad securely , and reduce it at the al-Qa’ida . pad transfer in this fashion can be propagate to grow young works .
Propagating Prickly Pear Cactus
Propagation is typically more successful through launchpad than seed , as seed can take up to three years to make grow into a full plant life . pick out a diggings that is at least six months former , allow it to callosity over ( heal ) for about a hebdomad , and then plant it upright in flaxen soil . After about a month , test for new root by softly tugging . If the cactus withstand , it has established root ; if not , give it more time .
Potting and Repotting
This cactus can be grown in container . pick out a container with copious drainage , and if planting indoors , use cactus - specific grime . Start with a pot just a few in broad than the cactus pad and upgrade pots as the plant life matures , typically every one to two years .
Overwintering
If grow in a green goddess , get thePrickly Pear Cactusindoors for winter to protect it from harsh conditions . Outdoor plant can benefit from a thick mulch layer around their base to facilitate insulate them from severe cold .
Common Issues and Pests
While thePrickly Pear Cactusis stout , it can fall dupe to certain problems :
Encouraging Blooms on the Prickly Pear Cactus
Blooms may take several eld to come out as the cactus matures . To support blooming , place the cactus in full sunshine and feed it monthly during the produce time of year with a 5 - 10 - 10 fertilizer . Once blossom appear , trim them down to about ten per pad to allow for healthy fruit ontogenesis .
Harvesting Prickly Pear Fruit
In addition to its beauty , thePrickly Pear Cactusproduces comestible fruits known as “ tunas . ” Although pocket-sized than those of its cousinOpuntia ficus - indica , the fruit of the easterly prickly Pyrus communis can be used to make jams , jelly , and pickle . To glean , ensure you weary glove and carefully remove the fruit . It ’s important to mention that the fruits contain small spines , so handle them with tutelage .
Conclusion
ThePrickly Pear Cactusis a resilient , low - alimony flora suitable for a wide of the mark range of climates and nonsuch for gardeners of all experience levels . Its compact sizing , vivacious chickenhearted blooms , and hit pads make it an sympathetic addition to gardens , xeriscapes , and even indoor container collections . By comply these guidelines for light source , grunge , water , and seasonal aid , you ’ll enjoy the unparalleled beauty of thePrickly Pear Cactusyear - round .
