How Do I Plant Barrel Cactus Seeds?

Barrel cactus is typically the largest type in the North American desert. Species range from miniature to giant size. You can find them growing naturally in Texas and California and the deserts in between. Barrel cactus flowers grow at the top of the plant. They don't have spines or many scales. The plant also has fruits that become fleshy and contain seeds. These seeds can be planted to grow barrel cactus in other locations.

Paper towel
Knife
Water
Cactus potting mix
Seed flat
Spray bottle

Instructions

- 1
  Slice the fruit in half with the knife. Remove the tiny seeds from inside. Separate them from the pulp and wash to remove debris.
- 2
  Dry the seeds by laying them on a paper towel. Plant them once they are dry or store them in an airtight container.
- 3
  Put the seeds in a cup of water. Let them soak for 24 hours.
- 4
  Fill a 2-inch seed flat with 1 inch of cactus potting mix. Press down to remove air pockets.
- 5
  Set a seed in each opening. There is no need to press them into the soil. Spray lightly with water to moisten the seeds.
- 6
  Put the seed flat in a warm, partially sunny spot. Barrel cactus seeds need about eight hours of indirect sunlight. The best temperature for germination is between 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 7
  Moisten the soil every day. Do not saturate because overwatering can kill the seeds.
- 8
  Transplant the young cacti after about six months to a year. You'll know it's time when they are about an inch tall and develop small spines.

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