Trichocereus pachanoi

Germination

Sow indoors at any time. Surface sow onto a moist, well-drained seed compost with added sand or grit for drainage. If you prefer you may add coir or sphagnum moss. Just cover the seeds with a little sand. Cover the seed tray with a clear plastic sheet or place in a propagator. Ideal temp. 23°C. Start off dark and humid, as the seeds start to germinate increase light and decrease humidity. Germination takes 14-180 days. Even under ideal conditions germination can be erratic. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots. Grow on under glass.

Growing

Grow under glass in a loam-based potting compost with added grit or use a Cactus compost. Water moderately when in growth. Do not water when dormant. A liquid fertiliser may be applied 2-3 times per year when in growth. Flowers only open at night and will last for 2-3 days. Although in its native, ideal conditions this cactus can reach 12M it is likely to be much smaller in the UK with a max. height of 6M.

Cultivation

Requires little attention. If you would like a succession of flowers deadhead the spent flowers preventing seeds from forming.