Repotting tall columnar with very shallow roots
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Repotting tall columnar with very shallow roots
In repotting most of my cacti into a pumice/DE/grit mix, I know I'll encounter more than one question. This one deals with an 11" tall, 2" wide Trichocereus grandiflorus hybrid with a very small (in comparison) root system. The bulk of the thick roots (and they are healthy) occupies only about 2", with a few longer fibrous ones extending about 4". My question is: What kind of pot should I use that will not tip over because of the height of the Tricho, yet will not be so big in volume that I'll have 6" or so of substrate--way too much for the size of the root system? Should I consider a low, shallow, wide "cactus dish" type of container whose width will prevent it from tipping over from being top-heavy? I realize I would somehow have to prop up the column until the new roots grow wide and strong enough to "anchor" the cactus in place.
Catch a falling star--but don't try it with a cactus!
- CactusFanDan
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Re: Repotting tall columnar with very shallow roots
Bulb bowls or other dishes can be useful, as can bonsai trainer pots (which are way cheaper than the proper ones). You can stake the plant while it develops a good root system too.
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Re: Repotting tall columnar with very shallow roots
Whichever style bowl I chose, I know it must have drainage holes. Problem is that so many bowls I've seen and like are like "cachepots", i.e. no drain holes themselves--just attractive pieces of pottery in which to place the real pot.
Catch a falling star--but don't try it with a cactus!
Re: Repotting tall columnar with very shallow roots
I put my big plants in nice ceramic pots I get at the big box stores. However, I always drill out several holes in the bottom of the pot. It can be done. Use a cement/mortar drill bit.
I'll grow it as long as it doesn't have glochids. Gaudy flowers a plus.
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Re: Repotting tall columnar with very shallow roots
Thanks for the idea, Barry. I'm going to Lowe's today for several things. I'll look at whatever pots they have. I'm also going to the Yankee Dollar store, where I can always find great cheap stuff!
Catch a falling star--but don't try it with a cactus!
Re: Repotting tall columnar with very shallow roots
Stuck my reply here since you posted twice:-
http://www.cactiguide.com/forum/viewtop ... 25&t=33874" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.cactiguide.com/forum/viewtop ... 25&t=33874" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;