1. Make your own cactus garden by collecting pieces cut from different kinds of cacti. Grow the variety in one single flat container or in separate pots.
Answer:
6 Steps to Follow for Growing a Cactus
Cacti have the ability to grow from the cut parts of other cacti of same species by vegetative propagation which we have learnt about in this chapter. The step-by-step process for growing a cactus by vegetative propagation is described below:
1. Choose Healthy Cacti from Available Species
Choose cacti from what is available in the market in your region. The plants should be healthy and disease-free. Several species of cacti are shown in the figure below for your reference.
2. Cut a Portion of the Stem
Sterilize a knife with alcohol and slice off a portion of the stem of the cactus. Caution: Hold the cactus with tongs while cutting it to prevent getting pricked by the thorns present on the body.
3. Callous the Cut Surface
Callousing of the cut surface is done by storing the cactus in a warm, dry place for a couple of days. The cut end of the cactus dries and forms a protective coating which prevents rotting.
4. Prepare Suitable Soil to Promote Healthy Growth of Cactus
In general, the soil should be of sandy, pebbly or gravelly type. This loose soil promotes quick drainage of water because excess water will cause the cactus cutting to rot. You can use a combination of coarse sand, gravel, pearlite and coconut coir. Fill a plastic pot with the soil.
5. Plant the Cutting in the Prepared Soil
Bury the cactus cutting callous-down inside the soil deep enough so it can stand on its own.
6. Provide Optimal Growing Conditions
Make sure you provide sufficient but indirect sunlight and minimal watering. Too much sunshine can damage the cutting and excessive/frequent watering can cause rotting. Place it in a location such as your windowsill and water sparingly. Only water the plant if the soil is dry.
7. Monitor the Growth of the Cutting and Provide Appropriate Care
Wait for several weeks and check to see if the cutting starts to develop roots. Once it develops roots and starts to grow, gradually increase the amount and duration of sunlight and water it more regularly. Check to see what the care requirements are for your specific cactus type before you proceed.
8. Repeats Steps 2 – 7 for Each Cactus Species to Grow a Cactus Garden
Repeat the steps 2 – 7 for each species of cactus you have selected and grow a beautiful cactus garden!
“Make your own cactus garden by collecting pieces cut from different kinds of cacti. Grow the variety in one single flat container or in separate pots.” – Solved.
Related Links:
Solution to Extended Learning Problem 1
Solution to Extended Learning Problem 2
Solution to Extended Learning Problem 3
Solution to Extended Learning Problem 4
Solution to Activity 8.1
Solution to Activity 8.2
Solution to Activity 8.3
Solution to Activity 8.4
