When growing Epiphyllum (epicactus) it is best remembered that in their original habitat they grow without much direct sun, 'filtered light' or 'dappled shade' is required. Many growers use shade cloth 70%.
Epiphyllum require moisture during the warmer months however they need to be protected from getting to wet in colder months. A free draining potting mix is essential.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is a night flowering species and is sometimes called the 'Night Blooming Cereus'. In summer the fragrant white flowers open as the sun sets and close again the next morning.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum or 'Night Blooming Cereus' is a fairly easy species to grow. Try starting young plants in a hanging basket, however they will outgrow this and will end up needing to be planted in a pot or container. Epiphyllum Oxypetalum or 'Night Blooming Cereus' are fairly easy to strike from cuttings.
Remember not to use really large containers for small plants, using containers that are to big for the plant tends to cause flowering problems as plants spend energy on growing roots, epicactus flower best when a little 'pot bound'
Fertilizing Epiphyllum requires a slow release fertilizer or a liquid seaweed based fertilizer.
Growing Epiphyllum from cuttings is not difficult, cuttings are best taken during the warmer months and allowed to harden or 'callous' for a few weeks in a cool dry shaded position. Once they have hardened up Epiphyllum are ready to plant up into pots or containers, and remember, use small pots at first and pot up as the plant grows, this will help with flower formation.
Many grower choose to grow Epi's in hanging baskets or on a pot stand, this helps with drainage, keeps snails and slugs away and lifts the plants closer to eye level, easier to view those fantastic flowers.
Problems and pests with Epiphyllum :
Snails and Slugs.
To much water.
To much light.
Poor air flow. |
