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Posted 4d ago by @MotherChickory

Hi, someone any idea what to do? I got this from a friend...

#GoldenTorch
4ft to light, indirect
3” pot
Last watered 1 week ago
Best Answer
@MotherChickory Hi Lucas! Welcome to Greg! I found this for you! Caring for a Golden Torch cactus (Echinopsis spachiana) requires replicating its native arid environment: plenty of direct sunlight, gritty well-draining soil, and infrequent, deep watering. The primary rule is to avoid overwatering, as this can quickly lead to root rot.Care EssentialsSunlight: Requires at least 6 hours of full, direct sun daily. If keeping it indoors, place it in the brightest, south or west-facing window possible.Soil: Plant in a gritty, fast-draining mix. You can use a commercial Cactus and Succulent Mix combined with extra perlite or pumice to ensure water passes through rapidly.Watering:Spring & Summer (Growing Season): Water deeply but only when the soil is completely dry. Expect to water every 2 to 3 weeks depending on heat.Fall & Winter (Dormancy): Cut back significantly, watering only once every 4 to 6 weeks to prevent the roots from rotting in the cold.Temperature: Ideally kept between 70Β°F to 80Β°F during the growing season. It is hardy to about 25Β°F for short periods, but must be protected from prolonged or severe frost.Fertilizing: Apply a balanced Cactus Fertilizer with a 5-10-5 N-P-K ratio once in the spring to encourage growth and potential blooms.
Does the pot have drainage holes? If not, an immediate repot would be in order. They can’t tolerate regular soil, if you can get your hands on cactus/succulent soil, that would be best. I only water my cacti about once a month in the growing season, and they are in full sun, south facing windows. Even less in the winter.
It needs a pot with drainage. As the plant is a type of cacti, you won’t want to water often but when you do, you should let the soil dry out fully between waterings.
Welcome to Greg! If you do repot wait 5-7 day to water it so the damaged roots have time to recover. Also if introducing it to outdoor sun, acclimate it slowly to avoid sunburn. I hope you find this useful :3