Pediocactus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. North America.

Description. The genus Pediocactus consists of 5 - 10 species, often solitary growing cacti with spherical dark green stems, 6 - 8 cm in diameter and a deep root system. With age, the stems can take on a cylindrical shape and form lateral shoots at the base. The lower part of the stem may be below the surface of the substrate. The number, length, color and shape of spines are very variable among different species. Most cacti are covered very densely with light, long, straight spines. Flower buds appear at the top of the stem in the fall and overwinter on the dormant plant. In spring, flowers open - quite large compared to the size of the plant itself - up to 3 cm in diameter, in delicate, pastel shades of pink, yellow, white, with a yellow center.

Height. It grows very slowly and reaches only 10 - 20 cm in height.

Home care

Temperature conditions

Likes to enjoy the summer heat, the rest period should take place at a temperature of about 10 - 12 ° C. 

Lighting

Pediocactus loves bright sunlight with light shade on hot summer days. In autumn and winter it should receive maximum light. Good lighting stimulates the formation of buds. If there is a lack of natural light, you can use fluorescent lamps for additional lighting.

Care

Very difficult to maintain and capricious plants that only experienced cactus growers can handle. When grown on their own roots, they are especially picky. 

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

Feed monthly with fertilizers for cacti and succulents high in potassium, calcium and phosphorus. The fertilizer is diluted to half the recommended dose and applied in spring and summer. During the dormant period, cacti are not fed. 

Purpose

Rarely found in cultivation and valued by lovers of rare plants. The miniature size allows you to place the entire collection on a small windowsill. Often grafted onto more resistant rootstocks.

Flowering time

Spring. 

Air humidity

Pediocactus requires good air movement without cold drafts. It does not require spraying; during the rest period, the air in the room should be especially dry.

Soil moisture

Water until the soil is completely saturated, but dry it to at least half the depth before each subsequent watering. In winter, keep watering to a minimum; the pediocactus will need watering if its stem begins to shrink. In their natural environment, during periods of drought, these cacti shrink so much in size that they can completely disappear under the surface of the soil. 

Transfer

Repot as needed, about every 2-3 years. After planting, stop watering for 7-10 days. Use deep, appropriately sized pots with large drainage holes, as the species has a large, deep root system.

Reproduction

Pediocactus is often grafted onto more unpretentious rootstocks. It is not easy for these cacti to reproduce by seeds - they germinate with difficulty, and germination leaves much to be desired. Separation of lateral shoots, which are rare, but still formed at the base of the plant. 

Pests and diseases

Root rot at the slightest excess of moisture or poor drainage.

Red mites, mealybugs, thrips and aphids sometimes appear.