Mold is a type of fungus commonly found in warm humid areas. When it grows in houseplant soil, mold can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. The fungus can also release spores into the air which can be harmful to people with mold allergies or asthma. Mold in potting soil can appear in…
The Christmas cactus is a popular houseplant known for its beautiful, showy blooms that appear in the winter. This plant is quite sensitive to temperature and should be protected from frost and heat. That’s why it becomes important to understand its cold hardiness and temperature requirements. The ideal temperature for a Christmas cactus is between…
Bottom watering can benefit cacti and other houseplants that don’t like having wet leaves. This method allows the soil and roots to soak water from the bottom up rather than from the top. However, timing is important in preventing overwatering and water not reaching the top. It’s worth noting that reverse watering takes about 15…
Several types of insects can be found in houseplant soil. These insect pests can be a nuisance and sometimes damaging to the plants. Identifying the specific type of insect around your houseplant is important for effective control. Tiny white bugs in houseplant soil could be fungus gnats, root aphids, springtails, thrips, or root mealybugs. Most…
Prickly pear cacti are relatively problem-free plants but may take several years to reach their full size. Their growth rate typically depends on the species, growth conditions, and specific care they receive. As a rough estimate, prickly pear cactus grows about 3-6 inches in height and width yearly under optimal growth conditions. It’s also worth…
The prickly pear cactus is a drought-tolerant plant valued in many gardens and landscapes. It has many uses, and its tissues (fruit and stems) are commonly eaten and used as medicine in Mexican cultures, explains WebMD. This cactus thrives in various soil types, and propagating it is as easy as growing. Several methods can propagate…
Black spots on cacti are not just a cosmetic concern, they can also signify a serious underlying problem. These spots can appear on the stem, leaves, or even the fruit of the cactus, and they can range in size from small dots to large patches. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including…
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that can infest cacti and other plants. They suck and feed on the plant’s sap, causing visible damage to the plant. In severe infestations, spider mites can cause irreversible damage or kill a cactus. Fortunately, early detection and control can help save the plant. Just like the scale on…
Cacti are hardy plants that can go for long periods of time without getting thirsty. They have evolved unique features that help them conserve water and survive in dry conditions. This makes them easy to care for when grown as houseplants. So, exactly how long can a cactus go without water? Young cactus plants have…
Cactus grow slowly and it takes time to realize any new changes. This plant is remarkably hardy and you may also not easily tell when it is in trouble. When grown indoors, a few blunders in the care routine may result in the premature death of a cactus. So, how do you tell if your…