Astrophytumis a genus of fourNorth Americancacti . They are all found inMexico , and some also in theUnited States . cognize for their beauty , these are quite popular among cacti collectors for their prime , which are usually yellow or white . Astrophytums usually turn as solitary stems . Some species will become short columnar after in life if properly maintained . Some also have distinctive white bit on their bodies .
Many of thesecactiare prise : for example , Astrophytum asteriasis staggeringly valued by theJapanese , particularly the ' Super Kabuto’strain . However , they are unmanageable to cultivate and are often transplant onto anEchinopsisfor best results . Most nurseryman would be good off stick to withAstrophytum ornatumorAstrophytum myriostigma , both highly rate . Astrophytums are ribbed and covered in areoles from which sharp-worded spinal column protrude . The spines can be black or golden . These cacti are ordinarily slow - growing , and though mature specimens are quite impressive , it can take geezerhood to nurtureAstrophytumto that point . However , their free - growing flowers , which stick up from the apex , are endearing . These are among the more pleasant mintage of North American cacti if properly get .
luminosity : Very sunny conditions , with hours of direct sunlight every solar day . piddle : Astrophytums like wry conditions with sporadic watering in the summertime and then a ironic wintertime . During the growing time of year , water supply infrequently . Temperature : They wish hot temperature above 70 ˚F ( 21 ˚C ) during the summer and opt cooler , more temperate wintertime . Soil : distinctive cactuspotting mixshould be fine , ideally containing some loam or peat . plant food : Fertilize with a balanced , diluted fertilizer , like 20 - 20 - 20 , unify into their water during the growing time of year .
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They spread by ejaculate , and their seeds are pretty fragile ; be gentle with them before planting . They also have a relatively short shelf lifetime and must be sown quickly after harvesting to have a fair rooting chance . When sow them , ensure they are in well - air soil , then seal off the newly planted seeds to help catch moisture and heat . It can serve to imbue seeds before they are sown .
Repot on a regular basis to help them develop . Astrophytums should be repotted at the starting time of the grow season for serious results , admit them to grow into the impressive specimen for which the genus is known . Due to their stiff spike , protect your hands before repotting . Lift the flora out at once , then replace it in a with child pot and backfill it with grease . Do not overwater or overfeed fresh repotted cacti , as disturbances can be laborious on them .
Astrophytums are not vigorous plants , and they need a lot of solitaire to reach their full potential . Keep regularly watering , feed them during the growing time of year , and repot every year to give them space to develop . They necessitate a temperate , dry winter . control not to overwater them to avoid rot their roots . They will develop wondrous flowers if generate sufficient caution once they reach maturity . determine out for rough-cut cactuspestslike aphids and descale as well . These can often be withdraw guardianship of by a good eco - well-disposed pesticide or wiped away with a cloth .
Source : about.com
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