Growing Bolivian Torch: A Time-Consuming Process Explained

The Bolivian torch, or Echinopsis lageniformis, is a fast-growing columnar cactus native to the high deserts of Bolivia. It can also be grown at home, either from seed or cutting. When grown from seed, it can take a month to germinate, and it's recommended that the cactus is then transplanted to a larger container and placed in light shade for its first summer. When grown from a cutting, the process can be faster, as growers can skip the germination phase. However, it's important to note that the cutting should be completely dry before being placed in a dry container for two weeks and then into a dry rooting medium for four to six weeks. The growth rate of the Bolivian torch cactus will vary depending on the climate and growing conditions. In the midwestern US, for example, the average annual growth rate is between 12 and 20 inches during a five-month growing season.

Bolivian torch growth rate

The Bolivian torch, or Echinopsis lageniformis, is a fast-growing columnar cactus. However, it is important to note that "fast-growing" is relative to other cacti species, which are known for their slow growth.

When grown from seed, it takes about a month for the Bolivian torch to germinate. During the first year, the growth rate is slow, and it can take up to three years for the cactus to reach a height of one foot. After that, the growth rate increases, and the cactus can grow between 12 and 20 inches annually, depending on the climate and growing conditions. For example, in the midwestern US, the average annual growth rate is between 12 and 20 inches during the five-month growing season, while in California and Florida, the growth rate is even higher.

It is worth noting that the growth rate will be slower until the cutting is fully rooted, which can take a few months. Additionally, the Bolivian torch goes dormant in the winter, and its growth slows down during this time.

The final height of the Bolivian torch cactus can reach anywhere between two and five meters. However, even after five years, the cactus may still look puny compared to those growing uninterrupted in the wild.

Bolivian torch growth conditions

The Bolivian torch cactus, or Echinopsis lageniformis, is a fast-growing columnar cactus native to the high deserts of Bolivia. It can also be grown at home with relative ease. Here are the ideal growth conditions for the Bolivian torch cactus.

Sunlight

The Bolivian torch cactus requires abundant, bright, and direct sunlight. Place the plant less than one foot from a south-facing window to maximise the potential for growth. Ensure that the cactus gets 6-8 hours of sunlight each day.

Watering

Bolivian Torch Cacti thrive in dry soil and should be watered sparingly. Watering requirements will depend on the size of the pot and whether the plant is receiving direct sunlight. For example, a Bolivian torch cactus potted in a 5" pot that doesn't get direct sunlight will need 0.5 cups of water every 12 days. Water your cactus from the bottom by filling a shallow tray with water and placing the pot inside for 20 minutes.

Soil

Bolivian Torch Cacti prefer dry environments and are very sensitive to wet soil. Choose a potting soil that drains well and doesn't retain too much moisture. A good soil mix will have lots of perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition.

Fertiliser

Bolivian Torch Cacti grow very slowly and don't require added fertiliser. Replacing the plant's potting soil once a year should provide them with enough nutrients.

Temperature

Maintain a temperature of 20-25°C when growing your cactus from a cutting. To germinate seeds, try to maintain a temperature of 23°C.

Bolivian torch soil

Bolivian Torch Cacti, scientifically known as Echinopsis lageniformis, are native to the high deserts of Bolivia. They are a fast-growing columnar cactus species that can reach heights of up to 5 metres and have a diameter of 15-20cm. They are characterised by their 4 to 8 ribs, with each areole bearing 2 to 6 spines that are honey-coloured to brown and can grow up to 7cm long.

When growing a Bolivian Torch Cactus, it is important to use a cactus potting mix, which is a blend of sand, soil, and peat moss. This growing medium should be aerated and have few nutrients, as cacti evolved in the desert and prefer these conditions. It is also crucial to avoid overwatering and to ensure the cactus is not exposed to prolonged dampness or sitting water. The best way to water a Bolivian Torch Cactus is with the soak and dry method. When watering, water deeply so that the plant noticeably plumps up. Fertilise during the growing season for the best results.

Bolivian Torch Cacti can be propagated by grafting, offsets, or seeds. Offsets are the clusters of smaller cacti that form around the base of the mother plant. To propagate from offsets, use a sharp knife to remove the offset, clean off any extra soil, and let it callous before replanting in well-drained soil.

Bolivian Torch Cacti can also be grown from seeds. To do this, use small, shallow pots filled with moistened cactus potting mix. Place several seeds in each pot, about 3cm apart, and cover with a thin layer of perlite and plastic film to trap moisture. Maintain a temperature of 23°C and expose the pots to 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. Only water when the pots dry out, and remove the plastic film slowly over the course of a week once the seeds have germinated. After germination, transplant the seedlings into larger containers and move them into a garden or outdoor area with full to partial sun exposure.

Bolivian torch fertiliser

The Bolivian Torch Cactus, or Echinopsis lageniformis, is a fascinating and beautiful cactus species native to South America, specifically the high deserts of Bolivia. It is a fast-growing columnar cactus that can reach impressive heights of 2-5 metres. While it is a relatively low-maintenance plant, fertilisation is an important aspect of its care.

Choosing a Fertiliser

Bolivian Torch Cacti require very little fertilisation. In fact, over-fertilisation can be detrimental to the plant's health. When choosing a fertiliser, opt for a mild, liquid formula. You can also use organic fertilisers such as eggshell powder or vermicompost.

Fertilising Schedule

Fertilise your Bolivian Torch Cactus once a month during its active growing season, which is typically in the spring, summer, and fall. You can also add a small amount of fertiliser during repotting, which should be done once a year or after the plant has doubled in size, whichever comes first.

Signs of Over-Fertilisation

It is important to be cautious when fertilising your Bolivian Torch Cactus, as over-fertilisation can lead to burning of the roots and leaves. Signs of over-fertilisation include:

• Brown or yellow leaves
• Leaf drop
• Stunted growth

Remember, it is always better to under-fertilise than to over-fertilise. If you are unsure, it is best to consult a specialist or an experienced cactus grower for advice.

Soil and Repotting

In addition to fertilisation, the choice of soil and proper repotting techniques are crucial for the health of your Bolivian Torch Cactus. This cactus prefers well-draining, gravelly soil with a pH between 6 and 7. A mixture of vermiculite, peat moss, and sand is ideal, with a small amount of organic potting soil added for extra nutrients.

When repotting, allow the soil to dry out completely before removing the cactus from its pot. Gently loosen the roots and remove any damaged or dead roots with clean, sterile tools. Place the cactus in its new pot and fill in with the prepared soil mixture. Water the cactus thoroughly after repotting and adjust its position to ensure it receives adequate sunlight.

Bolivian torch cuttings

The Bolivian torch cactus, or Echinopsis lageniformis, is a fast-growing columnar cactus native to the high deserts of Bolivia. It typically grows to a height of 2–5 metres, with a diameter of 15–20 cm. While it is possible to grow a Bolivian torch from seed, it can also be propagated from cuttings.

To grow a Bolivian torch cactus from a cutting, the first step is to cut the desired piece with a clean knife. The base of the cutting should then be placed in a moderately cool, dry, shady location to allow the wound to form a scab, which typically takes 2-3 weeks. An electric fan can speed up this process by helping to dehydrate the end in 24 hours. After this, the cutting should be placed vertically in a dry container and left to dry for a further two weeks at a temperature of 20–25°C.

Once the cutting has dried, it can be placed into a dry rooting medium such as perlite. It should be left in the dry mixture for 4–6 weeks without watering. After this period, the cutting can be checked for roots. If roots have formed, it is time to repot the cutting into a suitable potting mix. If not, the cutting should be placed back into the rooting mix for a little longer.

When repotting a rooted Bolivian torch cactus cutting, it is important to use a highly inorganic potting mix with over 50% pumice to avoid humidity-related issues. The potting mix can be adjusted with more inorganic material depending on the humidity of the growing conditions. The cutting should then be placed in a warm, shaded location and gently misted with a small amount of water. It is important not to overwater the cutting, as this can lead to rot.

Overall, growing a Bolivian torch cactus from a cutting is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires patience and the right conditions to be successful.

Frequently asked questions