The ruby ball cactus is a popular houseplant that is known for its bright red, ball-shaped top and green, ribbed base. This plant is a hybrid of two different cacti species, Gymnocalycium mihanovichii and Hylocereus undatus. The Gymnocalycium mihanovichii is a mutant cactus that lacks chlorophyll, the green pigment that allows plants to photosynthesize. This means that the ruby ball cactus cannot survive on its own and must be grafted onto a green cactus, such as the Hylocereus undatus, which provides the necessary nutrients.
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How to Grow a Ruby Ball Cactus?
Ruby ball cacti are relatively easy to grow and care for. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight and should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems with ruby ball cacti, so it is important to be careful not to overwater them.
Ruby ball cacti can be propagated by grafting or by seed. Grafting is the most common method of propagation, as it is the only way to ensure that the plant will survive. Seed propagation is possible, but it is more difficult and the success rate is lower.
![Ruby Ball Cactus](https://gsown.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/alaska_cactus.jpg)
Caring for a Ruby Ball Cactus
Light: Ruby ball cacti prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to lose their color. If you live in a hot climate, you may need to move your ruby ball cactus to a spot with more shade during the summer months.
Watering: Ruby ball cacti should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems with ruby ball cacti, so it is important to be careful not to overwater them.
Soil: Ruby ball cacti prefer a well-draining potting mix. You can use a cactus potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts potting soil, sand, and perlite.
Fertilizer: Ruby ball cacti do not need to be fertilized often. You can fertilize them once a month during the spring and summer with a cactus fertilizer.
Temperature: Ruby ball cacti can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they prefer temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can be grown outdoors in warm climates, but they should be brought indoors during the winter.
Pests and Diseases: Ruby ball cacti are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale. If you see any pests on your ruby ball cactus, you can remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Troubleshooting
If your ruby ball cactus is losing its color, it is most likely not getting enough sunlight. Move your plant to a spot with more bright, indirect sunlight.
If your ruby ball cactus is dropping leaves, it is most likely being overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
If your ruby ball cactus is developing brown spots, it is most likely being exposed to too much direct sunlight. Move your plant to a spot with more shade.
Conclusion
Ruby ball cacti are beautiful and easy-to-grow plants that make great houseplants. With proper care, your ruby ball cactus will thrive for many years to come.
Here are some additional tips for growing and caring for ruby ball cacti:
- Re-pot your ruby ball cactus every two to three years in a pot that is one size larger.
- If your ruby ball cactus is not flowering, you can try fertilizing it with a high-phosphorus fertilizer.
- Be careful not to over-fertilize your ruby ball cactus, as this can cause the leaves to fall off.
- If your ruby ball cactus is starting to look leggy, you can trim the top and propagate it to create a new plant.
With proper care, your ruby ball cactus will be a beautiful and long-lasting addition to your home.