Generally, I use a torn or cut piece of newspaper, slightly larger than the pot bottom diameter. It keeps any of the compost from washing out of the pot, and it would disintegrate/decompose as soon as the roots establish. I've read somewhere though that it would be better to use organic or plain, no...

Aha. Yes, #2 does seem to be M. polythele.
As for the third plant, Lobivia aurea seem close enough. The specific form/variety, well, maybe I'll get a better chance when I get it to flower.
I figured the Gymno would be the hardest one, haha..
Many thanks to everyone

to phil: could be. Actually, I was guessing it may be in Echinopsis (or sister genus) or Parodia.. Hhhmm

Hhmm, it is a single plant, just with an offshoot. Two actually. I think it isn't a Pachycereus pringlei or Carnegia since it doesn't have the characteristic redish new spines of the said species. Also, given it's size, I would find it really intriguing for it to already have offshoots (if it is ind...

Hello everyone. For starters, I'm Ron, from the Philippines. I'm 19 years old, though I've been collecting cacti for more than 7 years now. I am a member of the Cactus and Succulent society of the Philippines. The hobby's practically a real challenge since I live in a tropical country, but it is rea...