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How to Care for a Golden Barrel Cactus
How to Care for a Golden Barrel Cactus. The Golden Barrel Cactus, Echinocactus grusonii, is also sometimes referred to as Mother-in-Law's Cushion. This cactus is known for its barrel-like shape. It also has gold spines and gold-colored flowers (as its name implies). Clemson University recommends this cactus for beginning gardeners. This is because...
The Golden Barrel Cactus, Echinocactus grusonii, is also sometimes referred to as Mother-in-Law's Cushion. This cactus is known for its barrel-like shape. It also has gold spines and gold-colored flowers (as its name implies). Clemson University recommends this cactus for beginning gardeners. This is because Golden Barrel Cactus plants require minimal care and only have a few basic needs.
Things You'll Need
Potting soil
Water
Fertilizer
Larger pot
Use fresh potting mix. The potting mix should be one that is designated for cacti because cactus plants need a potting mix that drains well. You should also have holes in the bottom of your pot to assist with the drainage.
Set your Golden Barrel Cactus outside, or in a window that receives full sun.
Water your Golden Barrel Cactus until the soil feels moist. Do not water the plant again until the soil is almost completely dried out. Golden Barrel Cactus plants are extremely drought tolerant and don't do well in soil that is sopping wet.
Fertilize your Golden Barrel Cactus once each month, excluding winter months, with a low-nitrogen water-soluble fertilizer. For example, a 5-10-5 fertilizer would work well.
Examine your Golden Barrel Cactus once per year to see if it needs to be transplanted to a new, larger pot. Although these plants grow slowly, they will eventually reach about 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide. A pot that can accommodate that size will be necessary.
Tips & Warnings
Thick gloves should be worn when handling the Golden Barrel Cactus to avoid being pricked by the plant's spines.
If you want to plant a new Golden Barrel Cactus, you can grow one from seed. To obtain seeds look under the fruit of one of the flowers on a live Golden Barrel Cactus. You will see a small pod. Open the pod and scrape out the seeds. Place two or three seeds in the potting mix about 1 1/2 inches down.
Keep your Golden Barrel Cactus away from pets and small children. The spines are sharp and may cause injury to curious onlookers.
Don't place your cactus in a chilly room or outside when temperatures are going to drop below 45 degrees Farenheit. Cacti require warmer temperatures to thrive.
