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The monkey-tail cactus is an easy plant to grow and of great ornamental value. Also known as foxtail, the variety stands out when composing the decoration of balconies, outdoor areas and vertical gardens. Are you interested in growing it? Then follow the valuable tips from the agronomist Henrique Figueiredo!
What is the Monkeytail
The monkey-tail, or Hildewintera colademonis According to Henrique Figueiredo, the plant is easy to grow and requires simple daily care.
The cactus is also known for having white spines and elongated stems that can reach up to 2 meters in length. Due to its pendulous shape, the species is widely used in the decoration of planters, outdoor areas, and balconies. In addition, it is a good option for composing vertical gardens.
How to care for the Monkeytail
The monkey-tail is native to the rocky mountains of Bolivia, so it is considered a very resistant cactus. However, to grow healthy and full of life, it also needs basic care and attention to irrigation. With this in mind, check out 6 cultivation tips from agricultural engineer Henrique Figueiredo:
1. irrigation
"Henrique stresses the importance of moderate watering, because too much water can rot the plant's roots.
2. fertilization
The cactus can receive fertilizer once a month to stimulate its growth and blooming. Henrique recommends the use of worm humus and bokashi, which have a large source of nutrients. "The plant can also receive industrialized fertilizers, such as NPKs and Osmocote," he says.
3. luminosity
"The ideal environment for growing the monkeytail is full sun, however the plant also tolerates half-shade as long as it receives good light. "Because it is a species native to arid environments, the cactus needs direct sunlight, at least 6 hours a day.
4. ideal soil
As with most cacti and succulents, the species appreciates a well-drained substrate. According to the specialist, the ideal soil should be based on vegetal earth, sand, and fibrous materials such as pine bark and pieces of coal.
5. seedlings
The propagation of the plant happens through seeds and cuttings. According to Henrique, the cultivation by cuttings is the ideal method to guarantee new seedlings with ease. For this type of planting, he recommends the use of branches of approximately 12 cm. This way, it will be possible to generate healthy and resistant seedlings.
6. pests
"Mites, aphids and mealybugs are the most common pests of the monkey-tail cactus; however, you can easily control them if they are identified early on." According to the expert, you can find effective insecticides and industrialized products to stop most of these problems.
In addition to requiring little care, the monkey-tail produces flowers in spring and summer. The blooms contribute to an exotic decor, with a striking presence and full of personality. Follow the next topic for more tips and information about this cactus.
Learn more about the exuberant monkey-tail
It is said that the monkey-tail scares away negative energies, is the guardian of the environment and purifies the air. Its presence can be the splendor of the decoration. For that, it is necessary to get the cultivation right. Below, check out a selection of videos with more practical tips, curiosities and information
Curiosities about the monkey-tail cactus
In this video, botanist Samuel tells some curiosities about the monkey-tail. Did you know that the spines of the species are soft and delicate at the tips? Watch and find out more reasons to fall in love with this cactus.
See_also: 100 gourmet kitchen inspirations that will make you wish you had oneHow to grow monkey-tail in a pot
In the vlog, you will learn how to produce a quality substrate to ensure the health of the plant.
How to replant and make cactus seedlings
In this video, landscape designer Claudia Muller teaches you step by step how to replant a large seedling, and she also shows you how to use this moment to produce new seedlings in a very simple way.
How to Make Monkeytail Bloom Faster
In this video, see how to guarantee an intense blooming with simple fertilizers. Gardener Reinaldo indicates the use of charcoal powder, which is ideal for cacti and succulents.
See_also: Cultivation tips to compose your garden with the beautiful ghost plantNow you are ready to grow the monkey's tail and use it in your decoration. To make your house even more beautiful, also grow the mandacaru cactus, an exotic and very elegant species.
