Brain Cactus is one of the most interesting and easy-growing plants with its precious looking tangled structure. To provide the proper care for the Brain Cactus (Mammillaria elongata ‘Cristata’), one has to have some information concerning the plant needs concerning light, water, soil, temperature and other conditions. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to take care of your Brain Cactus so as to keep it healthy and retain that unique appearance.
Light Requirements
Brain Cacti prefer the light shade of sun (bright indirect light) in its most natural habitat. Put them near a source of light in the house such as the southern or the western window, but do not put them in direct sunlight. During the day this may make the peppers turn red, giving them a sunburnt appearance.
Watering
This species doesn’t require too much irrigation. A safe and technical method developed by experts to properly irrigate this plant is;
Soak-and-Dry Method
The Watering of your Brain Cactus is done when the soil is completely dry, thus you should water it thoroughly.
Make sure that the water is drained off to the bottom and never water should accumulate at the bottom.
Frequency
Water during spring and summer, but for the growing season, water should be done every 2-3 weeks depending on the climate. Water the plant less frequently, once the plant is in the winter season.
Avoid Overwatering
The frequent problem related to the cactus care is the overwatering of the plant. You should make sure that the soil is dry before watering the plant.
Soil
A well draining soil is a favorite one for this plant. Sand used in preparing the cactus should be a succulent potting mix with great drainage. It is also possible to prepare the mix by yourself, using the following proportion, a standard planting soil and sand or perlite.
Pots with Drainage Holes: It should be pointed out that root rot is a common problem hence, use pots with drainage holes to avoid water clogging at the base.
Temperature and Humidity
Warm Temperatures: Brain Cacti grow best in warm climates mostly ranging from 70- 80°F ( 21- 27°C ) when they are actively growing.
Protection from Frost: These cacti are not cold hardy, therefore not frost tolerant. Store them at above 50°F (10°C) during the winter in case the floods spill some of the beverages. If you live in a colder climate, bring your cactus indoors before the temperature drops.
Low Humidity: One needs to know that Brain Cacti do not favor a high humidity environment because they are desert plants..
Fertilizing
Ideally, you can give your Brain Cactus a diluted cactus fertilizer only in the growing season, for about every 4-6 weeks. Beware that you don’t use a high nitrogen fertilizer and apply a balanced water soluble fertilizer at one half recommended strength.
Avoid Over-Fertilizing: If applied in excess, the fertilizer yields more growth and at the same time it makes the plant weaker. Indeed, it is recommended to feed the cacti less in terms of using fertilizers.
Repotting
You should transplant your Brain Cactus every 2-3 years or when it becomes too large for the pot. The best time to report is in spring when growth is at its peak.
How to Repot
This plant should be calmly transplanted in a new pot with a good, well-draining soil, and this is done by taking the cactus out of its present pot. Be very gentle when handling the plant to avoid a situation where the roots of the cactus are damaged.
Pest Control
Brain Cacti can develop pest issues such as mealybugs and spider mite. Check for pests invasion on your cactus at least once in a week.
Treatment: The first sign of pests is tiny worms in flowers, and you should treat them with insecticidal soap or water and rubbing alcohol mixture. Spray the solution following the pest’s life cycle using a cotton swab.
General Maintenance
Except the technical steps and info, you should aware about the general care of the plant.
Dusting
Once in a while, you should use a soft brush to wipe the cactus so that it is clean and can produce chlorophyll properly.
Observation
Monitor your Brain Cactus for signs of stress or disease. The discoloration, soft spots or abnormal growth can be seen in case of disease or stress. It’s primary care that can assist you in resolving problems when they are not very severe.
Conclusion
The general tips for Brain Cactus care are not complicated if they are followed as indicated. So, if you offer your cactus the right amount of light, water, and nutrients and protect it from hot temperatures that are lethal for the plant and pests that can seriously harm it. By following the right tips proactively you can enjoy the uniqueness of the plant for a number of years.
