Tony Irons Seedling Cacti
Tel: 01275 846239
Situated In Portishead, Somerset, UK
E-mail: tonyironscacti@talktalk.net
The next event I will have a table at is on
10th May 2008:
RHS Rosemoor, Torrington, North Devon.
Thank you for stopping by my cacti website. I have 40 years of growing and showing experience.
I am not a full size professional nursery, just a well run large amateur concern.
I have many species available, too numerous to list. Why not contact me with your wants list, so that they are available for your visit.
Mail order facitilities are available, you can download a list of current plants by clicking here. You can then call or email me your choices. (Facility will only be available in the EU.)
Why not pay me a visit, quality seedling available to personal visitors. Please call and make a prior appointment.
Look out for me at forthcoming Cacti Marts & Shows.
Although cacti and other succulents can be grown indoors the best situation is in the greenhouse/conservatory therefore my treatment recommendations are based on that in the UK.
SUMMER: After the winter period gradually introduce water from mid March until you again reduce the watering to nothing in mid October. During the height of the summer you should be watering every 5 days, with the occasional light spraying during the odd evening when the sun is not shining into the greenhouse.
If possible use rainwater and I always add plant feed (i.e. Phostrogen) at each watering.
Although cacti and other succulents like the heat in a greenhouse they must also have "fresh air" circulating as they do in habitat. This is very important so that plants do not become scorched and damaged.
WINTER: From mid October until mid March no water must be given to the cacti, to enable them to hibernate, but also the temperature must not go below 5 degrees Celsius.
You may wish to cover the cacti with newspaper to give added insulation during this period - it will not harm them in any way.
PESTS: Mealy bug or red spider are the two main pests that can surface with a collection of cacti, but early treatment with most sprays available from your garden centre will help eradicate these.
COMPOST: There are many "ready mixed" cacti composts available,
however the mix I find best is:-
1 part "Cornish grit"
1 part "John Innes" seed compost
1 part Vermiculite
1 part COIR Compost
This gives enough retaining qualities in the mix for water but also allows root ventilation and drainage of the final mix.
Given all of the previously mentioned "tips" there is no reason why anyone can't build up a good flowering collection of cacti and other succulents that will give you and friends many many hours of enjoyment.
Good Growing,
Tony Irons
