Golden barrel cactus care

Echinocactus grusonii needs direct sun. Check the soil before you water.

This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.

Care at a glance

Botanical name: Echinocactus grusonii
Other names: Mother-in-law's cushion, Golden ball cactus
Light: Direct sun. Put it in a south or west window with 6 or more hours of direct sun.
Soil check: Every 14 to 28 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
Humidity: Normal room air is fine
Feeding: Feed rarely. Once or twice a year is enough. Do not feed in winter.

How does the soil feel near the bottom of the pot?

Push a wooden skewer or a pencil to the bottom of the pot. Pull it out. Look at it and feel it.

Dry: the skewer is clean and dry, all the way down. Water the plant.
Damp: the skewer has a little dark soil on the lower part. Do not water yet.
Wet: the skewer is dark and wet, with soil that sticks to it. Do not water. Check the drainage.

Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.

Use a cactus mix with extra pumice or perlite. The mix must drain fast.

Water only when the soil is dry to the bottom. In winter, water very little or not at all.
A soft, dark base means rot. Stop watering and move the plant to a dry place.
Pale, thin new growth means too little light. Move it to a sunnier window.
Move it to full sun slowly. A sudden change can cause sun scorch.

We do not know if this plant is safe for pets. Keep it away from pets and children.