How to encourage a cactus to flower

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Although getting a cactus to bloom is not the ultimate goal for most growers, it's still the icing on the cake to see these prickly succulents bloom. The wait may be long, as some cactus species take dozens of years to mature, but getting your cactus to bloom is a real horticultural feat.

some blooming cactus /CGTN infographic

Here are some tips to encourage your cactus to flower.

Step 1

Choose a cactus that is comparatively easy to grow. Some cacti take more than 50 years to mature, but the Gymnocalycium, Parodia, Mammillaria, and Notocactus cacti can be easily taken care of and can flower indoors.

Step 2

Choose a medium-sized pot with a draining hole for your cactus then leave some space for it to grow. Make sure to use a well-draining soil. Like other succulents, cacti don't like too much water.

cactus/ VCG Photo

Step 3

During the active growing season - which is usually from spring to autumn - water your cactus regularly. Wait until the soil is completely dry to water again. Decrease watering in freezing cold weather.

cactus/ VCG Photo

Step 4

Cacti need dormancy to bloom. The rest period usually takes between two and four months when the temperature is under 15c. During this time, withhold water or fertilizer and move the pot to a cool place with plenty of sunlight.

Step 5

Place the cactus in a bright position where they can get plenty of sunshine. Most cacti need at least five hours of bright light so use artificial light if it's too dark indoors. Succulent plants which don't get enough light will etiolate (become pale) and most likely not bloom.

cactus/ VCG Photo

Step 6

Try not to repot the cactus often as they don't like being moved around. Instead, prepare a bigger pot in the first place. If you do have to move it from one pot to another, don't water the cactus as soon as the trip is done.

For more succulent care tips, read more: 10 hardy succulents perfect for winter