Antelope Horns

Water deeply when you do water, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Too much water can cause root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. During the growing season, they should be watered every two weeks. In the winter, they should be watered only once every two months.

Antelope Horns prefer full sun and cannot survive in shade. It needs at least six to eight hours of full sun, preferably more, during the growing season (spring and summer). It can thrive in partial shade as well, as long as it gets at least four hours of sun daily. In winter, they can tolerate some shade, as long as they get some light and are not left in complete darkness.

Antelope Horns prefers a warm and dry climate, with temperatures between 60°F–85°F (15.6°C–29.4°C) during day and no lower than 50°F (10°C) during the night. They can survive temperatures below freezing for short periods of time, but it is not recommended to leave them outside if temperatures are going to stay below freezing for more than a few days.

Antelope Horns prefer dry air and humid environments can cause root rot or encourage pests, so it is important to keep humidity levels low. If possible, try to keep the humidity in their environment between 40 and 60%. Any higher and it may be hazardous to the plant itself.

Antelope Horns prefers a soil that is slightly acidic and well-draining, such as a cactus and succulent mix. When planting in a container, use a high-quality, commercial potting soil and mix in a handful of perlite or pumice for additional aeration and drainage.

Antelope Horns should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a garden fertilizer or a high-phosphorous fertilizer. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizer as that can create an abundance of foliage at the expense of flower production. An application of Epsom salts can also be beneficial once or twice a year.

Antelope Horns is a relatively pest-free plant; however, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale, mites, and aphids if conditions are right. Mealybugs and scale can be controlled with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol, while mites and aphids can be washed off with a gentle soap and water solution. Neem oil and insecticidal soap can be used as a preventative measure, but be sure to test them on one plant first to ensure they won’t damage the plant.

Antelope Horns should be repotted every two to three years, or when the roots become overcrowded. When repotting, it is important to use a well-draining potting mix and choose a pot with adequate drainage holes. It is best to repot in the spring before the growing season begins.

Antelope Horns do not need to be pruned except to get rid of dead or diseased stems. Pruning should only be done during the spring or summer season when the new growth begins to emerge. Pruning should be done with clean and sterilized clippers or scissors to prevent any spread of infection or disease.

Mulching is not necessary for Antelope Horns; however, a thin layer of organic mulch can help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing up around the base of the plant. Gravel and other decorative mulches are not recommended.

Antelope Horns can be propagated from stem cuttings in the spring or early summer. Take a pair of clean and sterilized garden shears and snip off a 3-4 inch section of stem just below the leaf node. Place the cuttings in moist potting soil and wait for new growth to form. Once the new growth has developed, the cuttings can be carefully moved into their own containers.

Antelope Horns does not require a stake for support, however, it may be beneficial for plants that are in windy or exposed areas. A lightweight stake can be used to keep the plant upright without causing damage to the stem.

During the winter, Antelope Horns require a short rest period in order to stay healthy. During this period, it is best to stop fertilizing and decrease watering. This helps slow the growth and give the plant time to rest. Once warm weather sets in and the last frost is passed, then the plant can come out of its rest period.

Antelope Horns is not considered a toxic plant for pets. It is, however, important to monitor any consumption of the plant or leaves as it may cause digestive issues if ingested in large amounts.