For more information about this plant not included in the peanut cactus infographic, visit our webpage at Peanut Cactus Care Guide and Maintenance.
Peanut Cactus Infographic Quick Care Overview
This peanut cactus infographic contains all of the necessary information to start growing the peanut cactus at home.
Growing this cactus is easy and the plant can tolerate a lot of tough growing conditions, making it a perfect choice for beginner gardeners and hobbyists.
Temperature Requirements:
Similar to most other cactus species, the peanut cactus thrives best in temperatures around 70°F (21°C).
Additionally, it can survive in sustained temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) and as high as 85°F (29°C).
Although the above peanut cactus infographic does not state it, do not allow these cacti to remain outside in temperatures that dip below freezing (32°F or 0°C)
Also ensure plants have shade from the midday and afternoon sun on days that remain over 85°F (29°C). This prevents them from drying out.
Water Requirements:
This type of cactus requires little water and will happily grow in dry conditions.
Its best to water when the top 1-2 inches (3-5 cm) of the soil has become dry to the touch. A toothpick can also be used to check the moisture level by sticking it into the soil and checking to see at what point it becomes damp.
As a general starting point, water the cactus once every 10 days to 2 weeks and make adjustments to the amount of water given and the frequency.
Also, always be care to not overwater a cactus because too much water can lead to rotting or fungus growth.
It better to underwater a cactus than to overwater one, especially in the short term.
Furthermore, consider reducing waterings to once every 3 weeks or so during the winter time when the peanut cactus enters its dormant phase.
Once spring returns slowly begin to water more often.
The peanut cactus infographic does not state it, but adding fertilizer to water during the spring and summer can help the cactus to flower.
Light Requirements:
This species does well in full sun to partial shade with direct sunlight for 6-8 hours a day.
On very hot days, make sure the cactus is shaded from the sun during midday when it is strongest to prevent burns or drying out.
In locations where is becomes too cold to leave cacti outside, bring the peanut cactus inside and give it 14-18 hours under grow lights.
Grow lights ensure the plant is receiving enough light to stay healthy.
Soil Requirements:
Similar to most other types of cactus, this species does best in well-draining soils that do not contain a lot of nutrients.
Too much slow release fertilizer or moisture retention in the soil can actually hinder growth.
To avoid this use specialized cactus or citrus mixes which always work well.
Adding gravel, perlite, sand, or peat moss to potting soil can all help to improve drainage and create a cactus soil mix.
Including rocks at the bottom of pots is also a good idea as it improves drainage and prevents water sitting on the roots of the cactus.