Mila

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Peru.

Description. Mila is a miniature cactus with dark green, often branching cylindrical stems at the base with a diameter of 3 - 4 cm and a deep tap root system. Ribs numerous, vertical, deep. The spines are often long and curved, covering the plant very abundantly. The flowers are funnel-shaped, yellow, about 2 cm in diameter, appearing at the top of the stems.

Height. Up to 30 cm.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

During the growth period, keep at a temperature of about 20 - 22 ° C. In winter, a dormant period is required at a temperature not exceeding 10 ° C. A dormant period is necessary for the formation of flower buds. During the growing season, a difference in daily temperatures is desirable. 

Lighting

In spring and summer - light shading from direct sunlight during the daytime, in autumn and winter - maximum possible lighting.

Care

Not the easiest cactus to care for, only for experienced collectors.

Substrate

The soil should easily pass water and air, pH not higher than 6.5. A mixture of leaf humus, turf soil with a large amount of coarse river sand or perlite to improve drainage and small pieces of charcoal is suitable. You can use a ready-made substrate for cacti and succulents. 

Feeding

In spring and summer, feed monthly with water-soluble fertilizers for cacti in half the concentration.

Purpose

A valuable collectible species that is rarely found on sale.

Flowering time

June July. 

Air humidity

Mila does not require spraying, the air should remain dry in autumn and winter. The plant needs good air movement.

Soil moisture

Water in spring and summer until the earthen ball is completely soaked; be sure to remove excess water that has accumulated in the pan after watering. Between waterings, the soil should be dried to half its depth. In the autumn-winter period, water extremely carefully - only to avoid drying out the earthen clod. 

Transfer

Transplantation is carried out in the spring, when the pot becomes too small for the root system. For planting, you need to choose a deep pot with large drainage holes. After transplantation, watering is suspended for 7 - 10 days.

Reproduction

Seeds that are sown in the spring on the surface of the soil. Seedlings are kept at a temperature of about 22° C. Cuttings from side shoots during spring and summer. The cut area is dried before planting. Grafting onto more resistant rootstocks.

Pests and diseases

Mila has a deep taproot system and is very sensitive to waterlogging. 

Red mites, mealybugs, thrips and aphids sometimes appear. 

Note

Beware of the sharp thorns of the mila.