Even though the aptly named golden barrel cactus or golden ball (Echinocactus grusonii) rarely thrives in its natural habitat, it is regularly grown indoors. The plant must be at least 15 years old and imitate its ideal growing circumstances in order for this cactus to bloom indoors, which happens infrequently. Flowers appear in the spring or summer if it blooms.
Since they are nearly circular when they are young, the cactus is known as a barrel cactus. They have deep ribbed lobes and stunning rows of evenly placed spines. They frequently extend out as they grow, making them more oval than circular. The key to growing cactus well inside, like with most other plants, is practically flawless drainage as opposed to letting them dry out.
Care Guide
Light
A sunny window, possibly with southern exposure, is ideal for a golden barrel cactus. Lack of sunshine causes plants to grow slowly and not thrive.
Water
The roots of golden barrel cacti are prone to decay. Water sparingly (every month or two) from autumn to spring, and make sure the soil drains thoroughly. Never let the tray sit in water or leave any water in it.
Simulate a drought in the winter by withholding water. Provide water gradually starting in the early spring, increasing it to once a week in the spring and summer, and making sure the water drains completely.
Soil
This plant requires dry, extremely well-drained soil to be grown outside. The best soil for cacti is one that drains quickly. If you use a normal peat-based mixture, improve drainage by adding more perlite or sand. When the soil starts to degrade, repot the plant. Add a few inches of gravel or tiny stones to the pot’s bottom to promote drainage.
Fertilizer
Every four weeks, fertilize these plants with a low-nitrogen fertilizer.
Humidity and Temperature
Although it prefers warm weather, the cactus can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Without humidity, it thrives.
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