How to successfully grow a barrel cactus to elevate your garden?

If you are looking for a plant that grows wonderfully in the arid regions of Mexico and the southwestern US, along with elevating the look of your garden or backyard, then the Barrel cactus is one of your top choices. This low-maintenance plant, present in numerous shapes and sizes, is the perfect plant to add to your rocky and arid landscape to turn it into a charming and vibrant space. 

Since these plants grow naturally in the region, it is also not very difficult for people to grow a Barrel Cactus, and here in the article, we will provide you with all the essential details that you need to grow your own Barrel Cactus. 

Overview of the Barrel Cactus 

Cacti present in a round shape are known as Barrel Cactus, as they quite resemble a barrel. These plants are native to the Southwestern US and central Mexico, mainly present in places such as Sonora, the Mojave Desert, and others. Since the entire climate of the region is similar to these places, a Barrel Cactus is one of the best plants to grow, whether outdoors or indoors, as it requires very little maintenance and can go long periods with a constant supply of water. 

Steps to plant and grow a Barrel Cactus

Barrel cacti love heat and dry air. They’re happiest soaking up sunshine. 

1. Getting the location right 

Start by picking the sunniest spot you’ve got. If you’re planting outdoors, find a place that gets direct sunlight all day. Indoors? Park your barrel cactus right next to a bright, sunny window.

2. Choosing the correct soil 

Barrel cacti want soil that drains fast—think cactus mix, not regular potting soil. Look for something with pumice, gravel, or perlite. Regular potting soil holds too much water and basically drowns the roots, so skip it.

3. Watering 

When it comes to watering, less is more. These guys are desert natives, so don’t drown them. In summer, water your outdoor cactus once a week. In winter, just a handful of times for the whole season. For indoor plants, water every two or three weeks. Always let the soil dry out completely before you give it another drink.

4. Humidity and Temperature Fluctuation

Barrel cacti like things warm, somewhere between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit is perfect. Keep them far from air vents, humidifiers, or bathrooms, where temps and moisture can jump around.

Care Instructions For a Barrel Cactus 

• Use a clay pot with drainage holes. Clay helps moisture evaporate, and the holes let extra water escape, which keeps roots happy.

• If you see roots poking out of the pot or sitting on top of the soil, it’s time to repot. Put on thick gloves (those spines mean business), gently pull the plant out, shake off the old soil, and move it to a bigger pot with fresh cactus soil.

• The last thing that you need to know is to feed your cactus during the growing season. Every four to six weeks, give it a shot of liquid fertilizer that’s high in potassium and low in nitrogen. That helps it grow strong and healthy.