Are you here to find out how to plant snake cactus? Then you are visiting the right page. However, before we jump into it, let’s have a quick review of this plant.
Snake cactus has long, thin, slender, columnar segments of deep green covered with many white spines that seem fuzzy. It is sometimes called snake cactus because it looks like snakes when trailing over rocks or across a cactus garden. Blossoms appear in segments in pale pink and shortly after bloom in bright white, forming funnel-shaped blossoms that can reach 3 to 4 inches in length.
About Snake Cactus
Snake Cactus (nyctocereus serpentinus) has thin slender segments of dark green with many spines, giving it the appearance of being fuzzy. It is sometimes called snake cactus because it looks like snakes when trailing over rocks or across a cactus garden. Blossoms appear in segments in pale pink and shortly after bloom in bright white, forming funnel-shaped blossoms that can reach 3 to 4 inches in length.
A snake cactus’ growth rate will vary greatly depending on factors such as soil type, sunlight, temperature, and others. Leaf trimming is often performed prior to shipping in order to reduce transpiration and travel stress.
Unlike other succulents, cactus grow quickly, are very hard to kill, and need little attention or care. Cactus grow well in pots or planted directly into the ground. Whether in a patio, garden, or outdoor area, they add a wonderful accent. If you live in a colder area, you can move the container Cactus indoors for the winter.
How To Plant Snake Cactus
Now here is the question: how to plant snake cactus? In case you bought it, planting your new cactus doesn’t need to be done immediately after receiving it. Place the newly purchased plant in a tray, move it to a shady area and water when dry. It can be stored for some time this way. During this time, you will be able to choose the perfect location for your new Cactus.
Cactus varieties of all types thrive in pots, indoors, or outdoors. For larger varieties, a container of 8″ to 16″ diameter and 10″ deep will suffice for getting started. Keep in mind that the looser the roots, the taller and healthier your cactus will be. Whenever a plant’s growth slows down due to root binding, it is time for a larger pot. You can find Snake Cactus mixes at your local box store that are well-drained, organic, and free of muck and sludge. Avoid soggy, mucky soil. Use a slow-time release fertilizer on seedlings to help establish them. Without fertilizer, they will grow slower due to the heavy salts in cheaper fertilizers. Use a brand you know and trust.
Sun Exposure:
Another thing you should pay your attention to is sun exposure. However, snake cactus can survive full sun, partial shade, or light shade.
Water Requirements:
Average water needs for succulent. Remember to water them regularly but don’t overdo it, since it will lead to overwatered snake cactus. This plant also requires consistently moist soil. Do not allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Light Requirements:
A Snake Cactus needs 80-100% light. In the northern end of their growth zone they should be brought indoors or covered during the winter. Their patio zone is 4b-11 which means they can prosper over the summer in colder climates but they must be brought indoors before winter.
Before You Plant Them Outdoors
Here is a little reminder for you in case you want to plant the snake cactus outside. Keep in mind that planting these Cactus in a brightly lit area might result in leaf burn. Keep this plant outside and gradually move it into a sunny spot over two weeks to acclimate it to its new environment.
Sum Up
So this far, do you know how to plant snake cactus? Unlike other succulents, cactus grow quickly, are very hard to kill, and need little attention or care. However, the little attention they need is very essential. You have to pay attention to the light requirement, sun exposure, and water requirements.