Origin
Pediocactus mesae-verdae is a popular cactus species that is indigenous to North America. This plant is native to the United States and is mostly found in the states of Utah, Colorado, and Arizona.
Common Names
Some of the common names for Pediocactus mesae-verdae include Mesa Verde cactus, mountain ball cactus, and Navajo pincushion cactus.
Uses
Pediocactus mesae-verdae has several uses, especially in the medical field. The cactus contains several active compounds that have medicinal properties. These compounds help to reduce inflammation, treat fever, pain, and headaches. Additionally, the cactus also has anti-cancer properties, thus making it suitable for cancer treatment therapy. The plant is also often used for landscaping to add beauty and aesthetic value to spaces.
General Appearance
Pediocactus mesae-verdae is a small cactus species with a globular shape. This plant can reach up to 5 cm in height and diameter. The plant's roots are shallow and form a thick mat that helps the plant survive in arid environments. The stem of the cactus is covered in small spines that provide protection from herbivores. The stem's color can vary from greenish-gray to dark green depending on the amount of sunlight the plant receives. The cactus flowers during the spring, and its flowers are pink, magenta, or yellow.
Light Requirements
Pediocactus mesae-verdae typically grows in full sunlight. It does not tolerate shade well, and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. If grown indoors, it must be placed in a south-facing window to ensure it receives enough sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Pediocactus mesae-verdae is native to hot and arid climates, and therefore requires warm temperatures to grow properly. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and above freezing at night. Temperatures below freezing can be harmful to the plant and impede growth. In the winter, it is essential to protect the plant from frost and freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Pediocactus mesae-verdae requires a well-draining soil mix to grow properly. A mixture of sand, perlite, and cactus soil is ideal. The plant needs a deep, well-draining container to allow its roots to grow and develop. It is important to avoid overwatering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
Cultivation
Pediocactus mesae-verdae is a slow-growing plant that is best cultivated in well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight, but it is recommended to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent sunburn. It is also essential to ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases.
When potting the plant, it is best to choose a container that is slightly larger than its root ball to allow room for future growth. The plant should be planted at the same depth as in its previous pot, and the soil should be firmly pressed around the roots to remove any air pockets.
Watering Needs
Pediocactus mesae-verdae prefers to be kept on the drier side and should not be watered until the soil has dried out entirely. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. During the winter months, the plant will require even less watering, and the soil should be allowed to dry out completely between watering.
When watering the plant, it is recommended to water deeply until water flows out of the drainage holes, ensuring the roots are adequately hydrated. It is essential to avoid getting water on the plant's leaves as this could lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Pediocactus mesae-verdae does not require regular fertilization, and overfeeding can lead to damage or death. Fertilizer may be applied sparingly once a month during the plant's growing season, using a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK ratio. It is recommended to dilute the fertilizer to half its strength to prevent overfeeding.
It is essential to avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months as it is dormant, and any unused nutrients will build up in the soil and may cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
The Pediocactus mesae-verdae plant does not require pruning, and any damage or dead growth can be trimmed with a sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears. It is recommended to wear gloves while handling the plant as its spines are sharp and can cause injury.
If the plant starts to produce offsets, they may be removed and planted separately to propagate the plant. It is essential to allow the cuttings to callus over before planting them in a well-draining soil mix.
Propagation of Pediocactus mesae-verdae
Pediocactus mesae-verdae, also known as Mesa Verde cactus, is a small and slow-growing cactus species that is native to the United States. It is a popular plant among cactus enthusiasts, but due to its slow growth, it can be challenging to propagate. However, with the right techniques, Pediocactus mesae-verdae can be propagated successfully.
Propagation Methods
The following are some of the most common methods used to propagate Pediocactus mesae-verdae.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Pediocactus mesae-verdae. Collect ripe fruit from the plant during the summer months, and extract the seeds. To extract the seeds, allow the fruit to dry and then crush it gently. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, and keep it moist but not too wet. The seeds should germinate within two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have grown much larger, it is time to transplant them into individual pots with well-draining soil.
Division Propagation
Division propagation can be performed in spring or summer. Remove the entire plant from its container, carefully remove the soil and search for the point where the new stems or offsets are connected. Gently separate the offsets, and plant each one in a well-draining soil mix in its separate pot. Water thoroughly after planting.
Offsets Propagation
Pediocactus mesae-verdae produces offsets, which can be removed when they are at least one-third the size of the parent plant. Gently remove the offsets from the parent plant, and plant each one in a well-draining, mineral-based mix in its separate pot. Water thoroughly after planting.
With the proper care and attention, Pediocactus mesae-verdae will grow into a healthy plant.
Disease Management
Pediocactus mesae-verdae is susceptible to various diseases that can dramatically impact plant performance and aesthetic appeal. The common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Pythium root rot: This disease causes the roots of the plant to rot, leading to wilting, yellowing, and ultimately death. To manage this disease, you should grow the plant in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and remove the affected plants and soil. Treating with fungicides can also be helpful.
- Anthracnose: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves, and in severe cases, it can cause the entire plant to wither and die. To manage anthracnose, you should prune the infected leaves, avoid high humidity, and treat with fungicides.
- Bacterial soft rot: This disease manifests as a soft, black, and water-soaked plant tissue. Affected plants eventually die. Management involves removing the infected plant parts and using bactericides to control the disease.
Pest Management
Pests can also adversely affect the growth and development of Pediocactus mesae-verdae. Here are some of the common pests to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These pests feed on the sap of the plants, causing yellowing, wilting and stunted growth. Treating with insecticidal soaps and oils can be helpful. You can also trim off the affected leaves and discard them properly.
- Mealybugs: These pests cause distortion of the plant tissue and can secrete honeydew, leading to the growth of black fungi. Controlling mealybugs involves removing and destroying the infected plant parts and using insecticides.
- Cactus weevils: These beetles bore into the plant stems, causing damage to the vascular tissue. To control cactus weevils, handpick them from plants, destroy them or use insecticides.
