TheNaturePlanet

Many friends who grow Gymnocalycium baldianum have this question: Do we have to water it thoroughly when watering? In fact, this needs to be flexibly judged according to its growth stage and surrounding environment, and cannot be generalized.

First, let's talk about spring and autumn. During these seasons, Gymnocalycium baldianum is in its growth peak period, just like a child growing up, with relatively high water requirements. When watering, we can water it thoroughly, which means slowly pouring water until it seeps out from the drainage holes at the bottom of the flower pot. This can fully moisten the soil, allow the roots to absorb water unimpeded, and promote plant growth. However, it should be noted that thorough watering does not mean keeping the potting soil constantly wet. We need to wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again, that is, follow the principle of "watering thoroughly after drying". Generally, watering once every 7-10 days is more appropriate in spring and autumn, but the specific watering interval depends on the home growing environment. If there is sufficient light and good ventilation, water evaporates quickly, so the watering interval can be slightly shortened; if the environment is relatively shady and ventilated poorly, the interval needs to be extended.

In summer and winter, Gymnocalycium baldianum is in a different state, and watering requires extra caution. When the temperature exceeds 30°C in summer, Gymnocalycium baldianum enters a "semi-resting" state, with slow growth and reduced water demand. If too much water is applied at this time, the potting soil is prone to water accumulation, just like a person feeling uncomfortable after being soaked in water for too long, the roots of Gymnocalycium baldianum will also rot. Therefore, only a small amount of water is needed in summer to keep the potting soil slightly moist, and there is no need to water it thoroughly. You can water a small amount along the edge of the pot, and be careful not to pour water directly onto the plant. In winter, more attention should be paid. When the temperature is lower than 5°C, Gymnocalycium baldianum almost stops growing and enters a deep dormant period. At this time, watering should be controlled, or even stopped. Even if watering a small amount, only the surface of the potting soil should be slightly moistened, and do not water it thoroughly, otherwise the roots are easily frostbitten at low temperatures.

After talking about watering, let's discuss the summer survival problem that everyone cares about. Surviving the summer for Gymnocalycium baldianum is indeed a bit challenging, but as long as the correct methods are mastered, it can (successfully) (get through the summer).

The sun is very strong in summer. If Gymnocalycium baldianum is directly exposed to the sun, its leaves are easily burned, resulting in sunburn spots or even withering. Therefore, we need to find a semi-shady place for it or set up a sunshade net to block 50%-70% of the sunlight and avoid the strong light at noon. It can be exposed to the sun in the morning or evening, with 3-4 hours of gentle light per day, which can not only meet its photosynthesis needs but also avoid being sunburned.

In terms of watering, Gymnocalycium baldianum is in a semi-dormant state in summer, and watering must be strictly controlled. Watering should be done in the cool evening or morning. Watering at high noon, when the water temperature differs greatly from the potting soil temperature, will stimulate the roots. Moreover, do not water the sphere, especially the growth point at the top. If water accumulates, it is easy to rot. If you accidentally pour water on it, quickly dry it with a clean tissue or cotton swab.

A good ventilation environment is very important for Gymnocalycium baldianum to survive the summer. In summer, it is hot and humid. If the ventilation is poor, bacteria and pests are likely to breed, and the potting soil will be stuffy, affecting root respiration. It can be placed in a well-ventilated place such as a windowsill or balcony, or a fan can be used to increase air circulation. You can also spray some water around the plant to cool it down, but be sure to ventilate in time after spraying to prevent water droplets from staying on it for a long time.

Summer is also a high-incidence period for pests and diseases. Gymnocalycium baldianum is easily targeted by pests such as red spiders and scale insects, and may also suffer from diseases such as root rot and anthracnose. Usually, pay more attention to the plant's condition and deal with pests and diseases in time. If there are pests, you can wipe them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or spray special insecticides; if there are diseases, quickly clean up the diseased leaves and plants, and then spray fungicides such as carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl after diluting according to the instructions.

In general, whether to water Gymnocalycium baldianum succulent thoroughly depends on its growth stage and environmental conditions. It can be watered thoroughly during the growing period, but wait until it is dry before watering again. Water less and do not water thoroughly during the dormant period. When surviving the summer, pay attention to shading, controlling watering, maintaining ventilation, preventing rain, and timely preventing and controlling pests and diseases. Although surviving the summer is a bit difficult, as long as we pay more attention and care for it carefully, Gymnocalycium baldianum will definitely survive the summer safely and grow beautifully.