Sun: full sun
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C) to Zone 11b from 45° F to 50° F (7.2° C to 10° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: cuttings, seeds
Flower: in the summer
Flower Type: Yellow
Toxic: Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: pests
Where to buy Cleistocactus Ritteri (Saguaro)?
Basc Care for Cleistocactus Ritteri (Saguaro)
Watering
What you need to remember is that this type of succulents needs to be watered for every 2 weeks
You can water your succulent more than often in extreme conditions but make sure that the soil is completely dry before watering your succulent again.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means winter. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "saguaro"
To ensure Cleistocactus Ritteri (Saguaro) grows to its fullest potential, make sure it receives plenty of direct sunlight. Aim for six hours or more of full sun a day – the ideal place would be near a sunny window or outdoors in your garden. Monitor the leaves closely; if they become pale or soft, relocate the plant to a sunnier spot.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C).
When temperatures drop below freezing, it is important to take precautions to protect Cleistocactus Ritteri (Saguaro) from the cold. Insulating and providing adequate drainage for the plant are key elements in helping it survive winter weather. Wind and sun exposure should also be minimized to prevent frost damage.
Any succulents in the group will need a medium space to grow. You can place your pot at your table or window. Since this plant needs more space than mini succulents, you should consider do not plant them together with other succulents/plants.
Propagation
One way to propagate Cleistocactus Ritteri (Saguaro) is by cutting
Cleistocactus Ritteri (Saguaro) propagates easily from seeds, however it's important to look for healthy ones which are plump, dark in color and slightly sticky when touched. To start the propagation process, mix a soil mixture with well-draining potting mix then sow the seeds evenly and press them lightly into the surface. Finally, water the soil using a spray bottle and place it in bright but indirect light to ensure germination.
Toxicity
Cleistocactus Ritteri (Saguaro) is generally thought to be non-toxic for humans and animals. However, it is important to note that certain parts of the plant may contain toxins which can cause mild skin irritation if ingested or touched. For this reason, the plant should always be kept away from children and pets.
Pests and Diseases
Cleistocactus Ritteri (Saguaro) can be affected common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents such as mealybugs and Red spider mites.
If you do spot any of pest signs, you can treat your succulent using below methods.
- Mealybugs: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Red spider mites: Quarantine, clean your infected plants, treatment with a systemic insecticidal/soapy water.
Besides that, to prevent serious health issues from happening, keep your succulent in a well-ventilated area and check it regularly for any signs of pests or health problems.
