Plant Care
- Light: The Silver Ball Cactus thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon, but protect it from intense midday sun, which can cause sunburn.
- Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, but reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
- Soil: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. The soil should be gritty and provide good aeration to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
- Temperature: The Silver Ball Cactus prefers warm temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) during the growing season. It can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter but should be protected from frost.
- Humidity: This cactus species prefers low humidity levels typical of arid environments. It can adapt to indoor conditions but benefits from good air circulation.
- Fertilization: Feed sparingly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in winter.
- Container: Choose a small, well-draining pot with adequate drainage holes for the Silver Ball Cactus. The pot should be slightly larger than the plant’s root ball to allow for growth.
- Pruning: The Silver Ball Cactus rarely requires pruning. Remove any dead or damaged parts with sterilized pruning tools to maintain plant health.
- Propagation: Propagate the Silver Ball Cactus from offsets (pups) that develop around the base of the mother plant. Allow offsets to dry and callus before planting them in well-draining soil.
- Pests: Watch for common cactus pests such as scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Support: The Silver Ball Cactus is generally self-supporting and does not require additional support.
