How to Maintain Cereus

Care

• 1

  Place cereus cactus in full sun with temperatures between 65 and 85 F. In the wintertime, 45 to 55 F is best, as the plants are in a dormant stage. Place in part shade when returning to the outdoors in summer, to prevent the cactus from scorching. Provide regular water.

• 2

  Repot when the cactus has become root-bound in its container, selecting a pot only slightly larger than the last. April is the most ideal time to transplant as the plant is starting its growth season. Too much root space can lead to rotting roots, so do not transplant if the pot is not root-bound.

• 3

  Avoid fertilizing after repotting, and do not water for two weeks. Provide moderate watering throughout the plant's life.

• 4

  Apply a monthly fertilizer with a low ratio of nitrogen, such as 5 nitrogen, 10 phosphorus and 5 potassium, during the summer months. If using slow-release fertilizer, apply once in the spring.

• 5

  Plant directly in the ground if larger growth is desired. Cereus is limited to its container size, but can grow quite large if planted in the ground, easily up to 20 feet in some species. Transplant during the dormant season, once the cereus is established.