Cylindropuntia prolifera

continental : They prefer locations where they can receive direct sunlight for at least few hours.
They can tolerate short slight frosts; in case of intense frost cover the aerial part with frost cloth.

alpine : It is advisable to place these plants in a very bright location, exposed to direct sunlight.
We suggest to cover the plants with frost cloth in autumn even though they can tolerate slight frosts; place them in the greenhouse if possible.

mediterranean : Place these plants in a very bright location, possibly exposed to direct sunlight.
The Cylindropuntia prolifera can generally tolerate slight frosts without any problem, therefore they can be grown in the garden without any problem.

Fertilization Cylindropuntia prolifera : Succulent plants are fertilized only during the vegetative period, usually from April to the end of September; it shall be used a fertilizer to be dissolved in normal waterings every 20-30 days. Nitrogen-poor fertilizers are more suitable for succulent plants, which would facilitate an excessive growth of the trunk.

continental : It is advisable to water regularly, specially during the hottest months of the year, avoiding to leave the soil dry for very long periods; the Cylindropuntia prolifera like slightly humid substrates all year long. In autumn and winter you can avoid watering, or intervene during warmest days only.

alpine : Try to keep a mostly humid soil, remember to water generously specially in summer; we can avoid watering during the cold season, or decrease waterings, intervening only in case of long duration drought.

mediterranean : Water the Cylindropuntia prolifera rather regularly from March to October, always allowing the soil to dry out well between two waterings. Avoid water excesses or stagnating water; during the cold season waterings can be decreased or suspended.

Treatments Cylindropuntia prolifera : Succulent plants are often attacked by cochineal and rot; at the end of winter and at the end of summer apply a mineral oil treatment, against the cochineal. Check all year long this dangerous parasites, that is often hidden in the roots.