Cleistocactus Strausii aka Silver Torch Cactus 5 Seeds Free Shipping!
Cleistocactus strausii, often called the silver torch cactus, is a perennial plant that can reach heights of up to 10 feet. It features slender, grey-green columns that are covered in spines. The seeds of this cactus are famous for their high germination rate and are easy to cultivate.
Germination Requirements
Soil: Use a well-draining, sterilized soil mix.
Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid soaking it.
Temperature: The best germination temperatures range from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 85°F).
Light: Seeds should be kept indoors, away from extreme light and heat.
Growing Conditions
Sunlight: Needs full sun for several hours each day to thrive and produce blooms.
Watering: Water in spring and summer when the top inch of soil is dry. Cut back on watering in the fall and keep it dry in winter to avoid root rot.
Fertilization: Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer during the active growth phase.
Additional Information
Cleistocactus strausii is simple to grow and can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. It’s known for its stunning deep red flowers that bloom in late summer. This cactus is also tough, able to handle low-nitrogen soils and can survive temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F).
Germinating Tiny Seeds
Tiny seeds, almost as fine as dust, such as lithops, other succulents and some cacti can be difficult to handle. Sometimes, in fact, the packet seems to contain notning except a trace of dust-size particles.
Here’s how to make a success of a tricky task.
For the potting medium use a seed starter mix. Or make your own using 2 parts peat moss, 1 part perlite and 1 part vermiculate.
1. Use a small pan or pot for sowing, about 4 or 5 in is adequate.
2. Fill the pan or pot to overflowing with the seed compost. Then firm it first with your fingers then with a wooden presser.
3. Pour a teaspoon of fine sand into the seed packet and shake the mix sand and seed. Feel free to use slightly bigger bag to accomplish this.
4. Sow the seed direct from the packet, tapping it slowly to release the sand-seed mixture evenly over the compost.
5. DO NOT cover the seed with the compost, simply press them into the surface with the wooden presser.
6. Water the compost from underneath by standing the tray or pot in a bowl of tepid water.
7. Best to use a germination kit with a heating mat. Or make a mini greenhouse by covering the tray or pot with a piece of glass, cling film, or seal inside with polythene bag to keep the compost moist and the atomosphere slightly humid. Keep the seeds above 70 deg F. night and day. Low temperatures often delay germination.
8. Very Fine seeds have a lower germination rate than normal sized ones and the correct temperature for germination is very important.
