Finger Cactus

Finger Cactus is a relatively drought-tolerant plant, but should still be kept at a consistently moist level. Water whenever the soil is dry to the touch, making sure to pull excess water out of the soil when this happens. Make sure your plant is standing in very well-draining soil and is never waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.

Finger Cactus prefers bright indirect sunlight for most of the day, as full sun can burn it and lead to long-term damage. During the summer, keeping the plant near or in a south-facing window should be enough, but during the winter, you may have to supplement natural light with a few hours of artificial lighting.

Finger Cactus prefers temperatures between 55 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (13 - 29 degrees Celsius). Ensure your plant is kept away from cold drafts, radiators, and other extreme temperatures so it can thrive. Avoid exposing your cactus to temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius) at all costs.

Finger Cactus can tolerate dry indoor air, but will benefit from extra humidity. To achieve this, mist the foliage lightly 1-2 times a week, or use a humidifier to keep your plant happily hydrated. Increasing airflow around the plant will also help keep humidity levels up.

Finger Cactus prefers a fast-draining cactus or succulent potting mix, supplemented with some perlite or pumice, for adequate drainage. Avoid using a soil mix that's too dense, as this can lead to poor drainage and standing water in the pot, leading to root rot.

Finger Cactus only needs to be fertilized during the summer months, as this plant has a slow growth rate. When fertilizing, use a well-balanced cactus fertilizer or one specifically designed for succulents and dilute it according to the instructions on the label. Make sure not to over-fertilize, as this can be damaging to the plant.

Finger Cacti are typically pest-resistant, but they may experience some issues with mealybugs, scale, thrips, or aphids if not kept in ideal conditions. If possible, try to identify the pest and treat the plant with the appropriate pesticide or insecticide. Ensure the plant has adequate airflow, water it correctly, and mist it regularly to avoid pest infestations.

Finger Cacti don't need to be repotted very often. You should only repot them when they outgrow their container, which usually takes a few years. When it's time to repot your plant, carefully remove it from its old pot and plant it in a new pot with fresh soil that is slightly bigger in size.

Finger Cactus are low-maintenance plants, so a lot of pruning is not necessary. If pruning is necessary, use sharp, clean scissors to remove any leaves or dead sections from the stem and avoid damaging the healthy parts in the process. Some light pruning can improve the appearance of your cactus and promote further growth.

Mulching is not necessary for Finger Cactus, but if mulch is applied, use a thin layer of it to retain moisture in the soil and create a nicer appearance. Avoid using soil or gravel mulch for succulents and opt for larger bark mulch instead, as this will be more effective for this particular type of plant.

Finger Cacti can be propagated by either taking stem cuttings or by seed. To take cuttings from your cactus, use a sharp and sterile knife or scissors to detach a healthy stem from the parent. Allow the cutting to heal for a few days before transplanting it into a pot full of well-draining soil. As for the seeds, sow them in a pot of well-draining succulent soil and constantly maintain moisture in the soil until the seedlings sprout.

Finger Cactus usually doesn't need any external support, as its stems are quite strong and long-lasting. If your cactus has become top-heavy or is leaning more than usual, you may have to provide some form of support to keep it upright. Use a stake or other support material to keep your cactus safely standing.

Finger Cactus undergo a dormant period during the winter months, which is normal. During this time, the cactus will enter a semi-dormant state and should receive less water than usual. To simulate winter weather, make sure your plant is exposed to cooler temperatures and slightly less sunlight.

Finger Cactus is non-toxic to cats and dogs, so you can safely keep them around your pets without any risk of harm. However, the plant needs to be kept away from small animals such as hamsters or gerbils, as their delicate nature can cause the cactus spikes to injure them.