Also, exposure to cold and hot temperatures will make it blush in no time. Keep the plant in a root-bound state, water less than required, and ensure it gets plenty of direct sunlight. Also, do not forget to wash your hands because if the sap gets into the eyes, it can cause temporary blindness. Note: While pruning the plant, always wear gloves as its milky sap can cause severe skin irritation. Also, take away dead and damaged foliage from time to time. Snipping it now and then will keep the growth in check. Prune the plant to keep it in shape as it can grow wild in all directions. Knock them off using a strong jet of water or an insecticidal soap solution. Pests and DiseasesĬommonly spider mites attack pencil cactus, and though these pests are inconspicuous, they look like tiny flecks of red, yellow, or green on the plants. Refer to the label for instructions.Īlso, do not feed the plant in winters in USDA Zones 9 and below, as it does not grow actively at this time in cold climates. If you want to boost its growth, use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half of its strength, once in 8-10 weeks. Infact, fertilizing too much can kill its growth and development. The plant pretty much takes care of its own, so you don’t have to worry much about the feeding regularly. Make sure the temperature does not drop below 50☏ or 10☌ for a long time. The plant performs well in warmer climates and does best in a temperature range between 65-75☏ or 18-25☌. If you have kept the plant in full sun, then keep an eye on the topsoil and water whenever it feels dry to touch. Watering it once in 10-20 days should be fine. You don’t have to bother much about the plant’s watering needs as it grows in dry soil. However, potting mix that is well-drained and has the ability to remain dry is most suitable. The plant does best in any soil type, so you don’t have to worry about this that much. While direct sun exposure will help the plant get that fiery red edges on the tiny foliage and stems, low light will make it green. A window with southern or western exposure is recommended if you don’t want to lose its color. You can easily grow it in rooms with indirect light. Surprisingly, it also has the ability to grow in low light. This means the more you will give it, the more colorful it will become. The Pencil Cactus plant loves to thrive in full sunlight.
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