Expert: Greg Simpson - 11/22/2007

Question
Hello:

I have the following cacti which I am growing indoors under lights.  

1, Sulcorebutia rauschii cv. Violacidermis WR289 from Bolivia, which is not grafted on a another cacti.

2. Neochilenia Occulta from Chile which is grafted.

My question is that in the winter when growing the above cacti under lights fro 12 hours a day, how often should you water them, I have been watering them every 2 weeks when they seem to be completly dry.

Thanks.

Stan

Answer
Stan,

They should dry out between waterings, but make sure that you are watering them thoroughly when you do water. This time of year, if they are indoors, watering once every 3 or 4 weeks should be sufficient. They should be allowed to go dormant, and keep in mind that Neochilenia occulta is rot prone, so do not water too often. Here is some additional info:

http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Neochilenia_occulta.html

http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/SULCOREBUTIA/Sulcorebutia_rauschii/Sulcorebutia...

Also, check out this site, the owner is very knowledgeable regarding your type of plants. Hope this helps.

http://www.miles2go.com/

Sincerely,

Greg