How to cultivate cactus?
Cactus is an exciting and well-known tree. The word “cactus” is derived from the ancient Greek word “Kaktus.” Which means thorny. It is thought to have originated in the Irish and Scottish deserts. This is why the tree can survive in little water. This tree is more expensive than other trees. About 1750 species of cactus have been discovered in the world so far. Of these, about 48 species are found in Bangladesh. Rattail cactus, Easter cactus, Prickly pear cactus, Orchid cactus, Star cactus, etc.
Soil
The soil for cactus cultivation is essential, which is quite different from other trees. Perlite soil or two-ash soil mixture is good in this case.
Pot preparation
Mix 60% sand, 20% perlite, and 20% cocoa peat (made with coconut husk) well. This mixture is the ideal surface for cactus cultivation. However, if perlite or coco peat is not available, land can be prepared in other ways.
- Compost manure, decomposing leaves,
Some amount of broken bone powder,
1 part fine grain sand,
1 part coarse-grained sand,
1 part do-ash soil.
However, a mixture of perlite, coco peat, and sand is ideal for maximum and good results.
Seed sowing
Seeds can be sown in small plastic or earthen pots or plastic boxes. In this case, you have to put some small stones in the pool first. The collection should then be filled with the prepared mixture or soil. Now you have to wet the soil with water in a pot. But water cannot be stored. Packaged seeds of cactus are available in the market. Packaged seeds or seeds collected from trees can also be used if desired. The seeds should be placed gently on the ground. But seeds cannot be planted deeper. Sprinkle a little sand on top. Then if the pot has polythene or a lid, it should be sealed well with the cover.
This will keep the moisture inside the pot. Now the pot should be kept in a place where it gets sunlight. In this case, the window space is a good place.
Sowing time
There is no set time for sowing cactus seedlings. However, it is better to sow the seeds in April-May.
Germination
The germination of sown seeds depends on the species of cactus. Germination of cactus seeds is usually completed within 17-20 days. However, sources of some varieties may take 2-3 months for germination.
Pen
Cactus can also be cultivated by grafting. Pens are possible in many species of cactus. However, prickly pear pens are more common. In this method, a whole stem of the tree is cut off from the tree. Small stones should be placed in a pot, then filled with soil mixture, and the separated branch should be planted in the soil. In this case, it should not be buried more than 4 inches deep. If you get regular water and adequate sunlight, the stem will leave its roots in a few days.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is a chemical or natural ingredient that mixes with soil to increase soil fertility. The nutrients of the fertilizer are helpful for the growth of the plant. Like other trees, cactus needs fertilizer, but it cannot be fertilized like other trees. 1/2 teaspoon of NPK fertilizer (mixture of urea, TSP, and potash) should be mixed in 1/2 liter of water. Spray this mixture on the whole plant and soil every 15 days.
Weed control
Weeds are harmful to every plant. It takes nutrients from the soil, so the seedlings get fewer nutrients. This impedes the growth of the seedlings and reduces their immunity. Weeds are not seen in cactus cultivation. Since cactus does not need to be watered more than once a week, weeds also rarely grow or do not grow at all. However, if there are weeds, it is easier and better to clean them by hand.
Irrigation
The right amount of water is significant for cactus cultivation. Giving less water may impede cactus growth. If more water is provided, the root rotting tree may die. The amount and application of water vary at different times of the year. Moreover, it also depends on the species of cactus. Cactus does not need much watering in winter; however, if the roots are likely to dry out, water 1-2 times a month.
At other times of the year, water once a week. Amount of water: 20 ml in a 3-inch size tub. 40 ml of water, 5-inch size tub. Water. Since rainwater does not contain alkali, it is better than tap water. If possible, it can be used as a preservative. However, cactus cannot be soaked directly in rainwater. If it rains, the cactus should be brought home.
Disease
Cactus does not cause any diseases. However, if extra water is given, the fungus can attack. As a result, the tree may rot and die. Therefore, it is necessary to refrain from giving too much water to the tree. All plants can be sprayed with a small amount of fungicide to protect against fungal attacks. The fungicide M-45 will work well in this case.