It is believed that the cactus is a picky plant and does not require special care. But, when it does not bloom, begins to turn yellow or stops growing, growers cannot understand the reason and do not know what to do about it. Like all plants, the cactus has its own growing characteristics, which must be strictly observed.
The most common reason is improper care in the winter, when flower buds are formed on the plant. During this period, the cactus must be provided with peace by placing it in a well-lit, cool place. In autumn, the amount of watering is gradually reduced, and in winter it is stopped altogether.
Cactus is a light-loving plant, and its deficiency can adversely affect the possibility of flowering.
There are times when the buds begin to grow at the wrong time and the lack of watering at this time can lead to their death. To avoid this, in winter you should periodically examine the cactus for the presence of ovaries.
In most cases, the buds appear on the side of the cactus that was in the shade, and on the lighted side, babies. If you expand the plant, then even small buds can turn into children. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the position of the pot does not change until the buds are finally formed.
The first flowering of a cactus occurs no earlier than 3-4 years later. To accelerate this process, it is necessary to provide an enabling environment. The plant requires sun and an abundance of moisture, the only exception is the winter period. In the warm season, it is advisable to take the cactus outside and fertilize the soil at least once a month.
Some plants begin to turn yellow at the base, mostly after 4 years of life. The bottom of the stem becomes rough, a yellow-brown bloom appears. If there are no ulcers under it and the base of the cactus is solid, then nothing terrible has happened. Otherwise, these are signs of developing rot.
Micronutrient deficiencies may be one possible cause. Top dressing with complex fertilizers and the creation of the most favorable conditions will help to correct the situation. As a last resort, transplant into a better soil mixture.
On a cactus not accustomed to the abundant sun, burns may appear in the form of yellow spots, which pass over time
The reasons for the yellowing of the stem can be the appearance of a spider mite or a change in the irrigation regime. In the first case, treatment with an appropriate acaricide should be performed, in the second, the amount of water should be adjusted and the plant should be protected from hypothermia.
Basically, the causes of diseases lie in the wrong conditions of detention. Even experienced flower growers make mistakes that lead to irreparable consequences. Only strict adherence to all maintenance rules and timely prevention can prevent the occurrence of diseases.