Repotting Melocactus

LuvDemCacti · Post by **LuvDemCacti** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 2:01 am

We all know that Melocactus should not be repotted after they begin to produce their cephalium. Does anyone know why? Is it because their root system is fragile after they mature, and repotting would do irrepairable damage? Have any of you repotted a Melo after it has produced the caphalium with any success?
Vic

peterb · Post by **peterb** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 2:16 am

Hi Vic- I have, following the advice of an expert grower which was to disturb the roots as little as possible. It seemed to work fine. I ended up giving the plant away, but I've heard it's still doing great.

peterb

birdguy34 · Post by **birdguy34** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 2:19 am

From what I read and been told their root systems isn't as vigorous as when young and if you are not careful when repotting they can be reluctant to replace lost roots. I do know people who have repotted plants with cephalums with no problem at all and I for one had one lose its roots and did eventually establish itself again. I would just be careful.
Chris

Lewis_cacti · Post by **Lewis_cacti** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 8:22 am

instead of repotting and the resulting possible killing, just feed up mature specimens with liquid food regularly over the growing season, and place fresh soil mix with added slow release fertilizer in it on the surface of the existing soil once it becomes old and exhausted.

LuvDemCacti · Post by **LuvDemCacti** » Sat Aug 02, 2008 9:37 pm

Lewis,
That's something I might try. Thanks.