Ariocarpus, Mixed Species

Germination

Sow indoors as soon as possible. Surface sow into deep pots filled with moist, well-drained seed compost which has been mixed 50% with sharp sand. Just cover with sand. Propagate. Ideal temp. 25°C. Keep shaded while germinating. Germination takes 10-180 days and can be erratic. Allow seedlings to develop for 2 years before transplanting. Very slow to grow.

Growing

Prefers a sharply draining loam based soil with minimal humus. Avoid overwatering, allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Keep dry over winter with a minimum temperature of 12°C. Full sun preferred.

Cultivation

Very slow growing. Forms a tap root so requires a deep pot. Use a weak, low-nitrogen fertiliser during the growing season. Keep dry whenever there is the threat of cold. Ideally water from the bottom. Will flower eventually.