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Rat's tail cactus: Aporocactus flagelliformis
The rat's tail cactus is easy to grow in bright light and is attractive in hanging baskets, especially in late spring and early summer, when its showy magenta-pink blooms appear. The flowers open during the day and close at night, and the rounded, spiny, hanging stems grow several inches a year. Profile
did you know?The sharp, needlelike spines of the cactus are actually modified leaves that have evolved to be hard and sharp to repel predators. They have a small surface area to conserve water. general maintenance:Repot young plants annually into a pot just slightly larger, because rat's tail cactus must be pot bound to bloom. pests/diseases:Mealybugs can be a problem on new growth. controls:Spray mealybugs with insecticidal soap, following label directions. how to sow/plant:Using a cactus potting mix, grow in hanging basket or pot. Set plants at the same level they were in previous pot. The soil level should be 1/2 to 1 inch below the rim of the pot to provide a water reservoir when watering. water and fertilize:During growing season, keep soil evenly moist, watering thoroughly until water flows out pot's drainage holes, and regularly apply fertilizer formulated for houseplants, following label directions. In winter, when plant is resting, allow soil to dry out and stop fertilizing. Resume feeding in spring as days lengthen. garden hint:Rat's tail cactus benefits from spending the summer outdoors. In winter while the plant is resting, a cool (60°F) room is ideal. features:
garden uses:
other uses:
From Martha Stewart Plant Encyclopedia
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