Why won't my cactus grow?

The vast majority of cactus species are slow-growing plants. In fact, in some it is so slow that hardly any change is seen over the years; but nevertheless, sometimes and without realizing it, we are the ones who prevent them from continuing to grow.

Why won't my cactus grow? It is what we ask ourselves, worried. Well then. There are several reasons why you may have stopped doing it. We are going to see them all and we will also discover what to do to solve them.

Lack of space

It is the most common cause. The cacti we buy usually take months - and maybe even years - in those same pots. Although the root system is superficial, over time it will need more space than the container in which it is planted has provided.. For this reason it is very, very important transplant our plants every two springs to a larger pot.

Unfavorable temperature

Whether the temperature is above 35 or below 10 degrees Celsius, growth cannot occur. In the first case it is because the loss of water would be important, and in the second because the cells would literally break due to the cold. It is for this reason that these plants stop their growth both in midsummer and in autumn-winter.

It has no »food»

By "food" I mean compost. It is very important to water every time you need it, but also to pay it, since without food sooner or later it will weaken and stop its growth. For this reason, during the warm months (spring and summer especially) we have to fertilize it with a liquid fertilizer for cacti following the instructions specified on the package.

Pests

There are many pests that can affect them, such as mealybugs and Red spider. If they can advance far enough, growth will stop. To avoid this, it is important to fertilize the cactus to keep it well fed and healthy, and treat it with insecticides in the event that a parasite wants to harm it.

Diseases

Fungi are the main microorganisms that cause disease. They love humid environments, so they will not hesitate to attack our cacti if we are watering them excessively.. To avoid this, water only when necessary (more information here) and take action if they are getting mushy (here I explain how to do it).

If you have any questions, don't leave them unanswered. Ask. 